IAF MI-17 helicopter transports Pench tigress from MP's Sukatra airstrip to Rajasthan
IAF MI-17 helicopter transports Pench tigress from MP's Sukatra airstrip to Rajasthan
## Tigress Relocated by Air to Rajasthan Following Complex Capture Operation
**Sukatra, Madhya Pradesh** – A female tiger, designated T-117, was successfully airlifted from Madhya Pradesh to Rajasthan earlier today in a carefully orchestrated operation involving the Indian Air Force (IAF) and wildlife authorities. The relocation marks a significant step in ongoing efforts to bolster tiger populations within Rajasthan’s protected areas and address human-wildlife conflict in Madhya Pradesh.
The operation, which spanned several hours, presented unique challenges due to the tigress’s proximity to a herd of elephants. Wildlife officials reported that the tigress was repeatedly encircled by the elephants throughout the morning and early afternoon, hindering initial attempts to safely approach and tranquillize the animal. The presence of the elephants necessitated a revised strategy, prioritizing the safety of both the tigress and the surrounding wildlife.
“The elephants presented a significant obstacle,” explained Dr. Arun Sharma, a wildlife veterinarian involved in the operation. “We had to exercise extreme caution to avoid any accidental harm to either the tigress or the elephant herd. Our team meticulously planned each step to ensure a safe and stress-free capture.”
Following careful observation and strategic maneuvering, the veterinary team successfully administered a tranquillizer dart to the tigress. Once sedated, she was carefully loaded into a specially designed transport crate and transported to the Sukatra airstrip. An IAF MI-17 helicopter was deployed to airlift the tigress to her new home in Rajasthan.
The specific location within Rajasthan remains undisclosed to protect the tigress from potential disturbances during her acclimation period. However, officials confirmed that she will be released into a secure and suitable habitat within a designated tiger reserve. The area has been carefully assessed to ensure adequate prey availability, water resources, and minimal human interference.
This relocation is part of a broader national strategy to manage tiger populations and mitigate human-wildlife conflict. In Madhya Pradesh, the move aims to alleviate pressure on local ecosystems and reduce the likelihood of encounters between tigers and human settlements. In Rajasthan, the introduction of T-117 is expected to contribute to genetic diversity and strengthen the existing tiger population within the state’s reserves.
Wildlife authorities are closely monitoring the tigress’s progress and will continue to provide support as she adapts to her new environment. Tracking collars have been fitted to allow for continuous monitoring of her movements and behavior.
The successful completion of this complex operation underscores the collaborative efforts of various agencies, including the IAF, state forest departments, and wildlife conservation organizations. It highlights the dedication and expertise required to manage and protect India’s iconic tiger population.
The relocation of T-117 serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and triumphs in wildlife conservation. While the operation was fraught with complexities, its successful execution offers a beacon of hope for the future of tiger conservation in India, demonstrating the power of collaboration and innovative solutions in protecting these magnificent creatures. The hope is that T-117 will thrive in her new home, contributing to a healthier and more resilient tiger population in Rajasthan.
This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.
