Ratapani Tiger Reserve to be named after world-renowned archaeologist Dr. Wakankar :CM Dr. Yadav

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has said that the Ratapani Tiger Reserve of the state will be named after the world-famous archaeologist Dr. Vishnu Wakankar. World Heritage Bhimbetka located in Ratapani Tiger Reserve has received recognition as a result of the relentless efforts of Dr. Wakankar. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav, on behalf of the people of the state, has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for granting permission for Ratapani Tiger Reserve to further enrich the wildlife wealth of the state. He said that among all the state capitals of the country, Bhopal is the only capital that houses a Tiger Reserve. The people of Bhopal and the state deserve congratulations for this honour. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav dedicated Ratapani Tiger Reserve from Jhiri Gate. The Chief Minister flagged off the unique bike rally of “Virasat Se Vikas” started for awareness regarding Tiger Reserve from Gol Jod located on Kolar Road. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav himself led the rally riding a bike.

Film actor Shri Randeep Hooda also takes part

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav was welcomed by wearing Gajmala at Gol Jod. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav dedicated Ratapani Tiger Reserve at Jhiri Gate and flagged off the tourist safari vehicle. During this, film actor Shri Randeep Hooda was specially present. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav praised and welcomed actor Shri Randeep Hooda and said that Shri Hooda has brought glory to the country and has made today’s generation aware about the contribution of Veer Savarkar in the country’s independence through his role in the film.

Tiger Reserve will increase employment opportunities

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that on completion of one year of government, employment opportunities in the area will also increase with gifts like Ratapani Tiger Reserve. It is an occasion of joy and excitement. Expressing the excitement of this achievement, an innovation was made to spread awareness by taking out a bike rally on the dedication of Ratapani Tiger Reserve. Tiger Reserve has created huge potential for tourism activities in Bhopal. Hotels, lodges, and other tourism facilities will provide employment, skill and entrepreneurship opportunities. The state government is also ready to provide all possible cooperation in this direction. Three districts of the state including Bhopal have received a unique gift through Ratapani Tiger Reserve. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that the Ratapani Tiger Reserve has mystery, adventure, nature, history, culture and archeology. Bhopal is fortunate that ‘Van-Vihar’ is near the Upper Lake and Ratapani Tiger Reserve is also in its neighbourhood. The Tiger Reserve will also help employ residents through homestays and other activities along with the conservation of wild animals.

Ratapani Tiger Reserve should be developed as the best tiger reserve

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that Madhya Pradesh is a Tiger State with the highest number of tigers compared to all the states of the country. India has the highest number of tigers in the world. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav directed to carry out all the necessary development work in the Tiger Reserve, conduct employment activities, help the residents and provide them with necessary guidance. He said that we should work with team spirit to make Ratapani Tiger Reserve the best tiger reserve. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that the state government is committed to setting a new record of development.

Memento made of sagaun leaves presented to Chief Minister Dr. Yadav

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav dedicated the Ratapani Tiger Reserve and also interacted with the villagers. While welcoming and greeting Chief Minister Dr. Yadav, the villagers also presented mementos made of sagoun leaves. Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Shri Vishwas Sarang, Micro and Small and Medium Minister Shri Chaitanya Kumar Kashyap, Minister of State for Backward Classes and Minority Welfare (Independent Charge) Smt. Krishna Gaur, Minister of State for Forest Shri Dilip Ahirwar, MLA Shri Surendra Patwa, Shri Rameshwar Sharma, MLA Shri Bhagwan Das Sabnani, Shri Hitanand Sharma, public representatives and a large number of citizens were present.

Special features of Ratapani Tiger Reserve

• Ratapani has always been the home of tigers. The Sanctuary is being upgraded to Ratapani Tiger Reserve. This will give Bhopal a new identity as the Tiger Capital not only in India but in the entire world.
• There has been a steady increase in the number of tigers in Ratapani Sanctuary, making the area an important habitat for tigers.
• Ratapani was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1976. It is home to not only tigers but also many other wild animals. This is a place where people will be able to see the diversity of nature closely.
• The total area of ​​Ratapani Sanctuary in Raisen and Sehore districts is approximately 1272 square kilometers previously notified. Currently, out of the total area of ​​the reserve, 763 square kilometers have been declared as the core area. This is the area where tigers will be able to move freely without any human interference.
• The remaining 507 square kilometers has been declared as buffer area. This area is located around the core area and will be accessible to local communities with some restrictions.
• The livelihood of the local people living around Ratapani is linked to this area. Being a tiger reserve, it will further promote tourism, which will create new employment opportunities for the locals.