Tue Jul 08 15:21:33 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Considers Declaring M.M. Hills a Tiger Reserve After Rising Tiger Population

**Bengaluru – July 8, 2025 (The Hindu)** – Amidst a growing tiger population in the Male Mahadeshwara Hills (M.M. Hills) Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre has instructed forest department officials to gather feedback from local communities regarding the potential declaration of the area as a tiger reserve.

During a meeting with senior officials, Minister Khandre directed the initiation of the declaration process and emphasized the importance of consulting with all stakeholders. This move comes after the recent tragic death of a tigress and her four cubs due to poisoning in the sanctuary, highlighting the need for enhanced protection measures.

“It is crucial to understand the impact this declaration will have on the local population,” stated Minister Khandre. “We need to ensure a balance between conservation efforts and the livelihoods of those who live near the sanctuary.”

Karnataka currently boasts five tiger reserves: Bandipur, Nagarahole, Biligiri Ranganthaswamy Temple (BRT), Bhadra, and Kali. The addition of M.M. Hills would further strengthen the state’s commitment to tiger conservation.

Beyond the proposed tiger reserve, Minister Khandre stressed the need for proactive measures to prevent unnatural wildlife deaths and human-wildlife conflict. He called for the establishment of a centralized command center, utilizing CCTV footage, to monitor animal movement, curb poaching, prevent forest encroachment, and combat illegal logging.

Furthermore, the Minister addressed staffing shortages within the department, instructing officials to begin recruitment for vacant positions and to submit proposals for the purchase of essential vehicles and equipment. He also urged forest officers to foster positive relationships with communities living on the fringes of the forest.

The consultation process and subsequent proposal for the M.M. Hills tiger reserve are expected to be expedited in the coming weeks.

Read More