Restrictions on Jatara at Beladakuppe Sri Mahadeshwaraswamy Temple in Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR)

Why in News?

The government has restricted the annual jatara (festival) of the Beladakuppe Sri Mahadeshwaraswamy Temple, held on the last Monday of Kartika month. The temple is located in the core area of Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR), a critical wildlife habitat.

Details of the Restriction

1. Reason for Restrictions
   • The core area of tiger reserves is strictly reserved for wildlife conservation and is free from human activities.
   • Large gatherings for the jatara could disturb the habitat and activities of endangered species, particularly tigers and elephants.
2. Core vs. Buffer Areas in Tiger Reserves
   • Core Area: Focused on wildlife protection, where human activities are prohibited.
   • Buffer Area: Allows limited, conservation-oriented land use to integrate wildlife protection with community needs.

About Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR)

1. Location and Importance
   • Situated in Karnataka, BTR is a crucial part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
   • The reserve plays a significant role in the conservation of tigers, elephants, and other species.
2. Key Features
   • Biodiversity Hotspot:
     • Home to 1/8th of the world’s tiger population, making it a critical tiger habitat.
     • Forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, India’s first biosphere reserve (established in 1986).
   • Tiger Landscape:
     • BTR is part of a larger landscape that includes Nagarahole, Wayanad, Mudumalai, and Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserves, spanning Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
   • Elephant Population:
     • Part of the Mysore Elephant Reserve, housing the largest population of Asian elephants globally.
3. Conservation Challenges
   • Human-Wildlife Conflict: Proximity of human settlements and activities increases risks.
   • Deforestation and Encroachment: Pressure from developmental and agricultural activities threatens habitats.

Significance of the Jatara Restrictions

1. Wildlife Conservation Priority
   • Prevents disturbances in the core area, ensuring a safe and undisturbed environment for wildlife.
2. Balancing Cultural Practices and Ecology
   • Encourages adherence to conservation laws while respecting cultural practices by suggesting alternative locations for the festival.
3. Ecological Preservation
   • Supports India’s commitment to protecting its biodiversity hotspots and tiger populations under initiatives like Project Tiger and the National Wildlife Action Plan.

Way Forward

1. Awareness and Engagement
   • Educate local communities about the importance of wildlife conservation and the ecological sensitivity of core areas.
2. Alternative Arrangements
   • Provide facilities in the buffer area for conducting cultural and religious activities.
3. Strengthen Wildlife Protection
   • Enhance patrolling and monitoring in the reserve to prevent illegal encroachments and ensure species protection.