Bhupender Yadav presided over Global Tiger Day 2025 celebrations in New Delhi

Bhupender Yadav, presided over the Global Tiger Day 2025 celebrations, held today at the National Zoological Park, New Delhi.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister emphasized the importance of ecological balance, conservation awareness among children, and gratitude towards nature. Shri Yadav congratulated schools and teachers for sensitizing young minds about wildlife conservation and preserving biodiversity.

Highlighting the Government’s commitment to wildlife conservation, the Minister stated, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the number of tiger reserves in India has increased from 46 in 2014 to 58 till date. This growth reflects the Prime Minister’s unwavering commitment to protecting our national animal.”

The Minister announced the launch of a nationwide tree plantation drive, where over 1 lakh saplings will be planted across all 58 tiger reserves, making it one of the largest such campaigns in the world.

Calling for greater environmental consciousness, Shri Yadav urged children and citizens to plant at least one tree in their mother’s name under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, as a gesture of gratitude to both matru shakti and Dharti Maa (Mother Earth). He said, “Just as our mother nurtures us, so does Mother Earth. A tree offers shelter to birds, bears fruit without asking, and provides oxygen selflessly. Let us all plant a tree for our mothers and for the planet.”

Shri Yadav also drew attention to the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) launched by India, which aims to protect the seven big cats found globally. He informed that 24 countries have already agreed to join this global effort, with the IBCA headquarters to be based in India.

The Minister called upon the youth to live a life of determination, patience, and humility, and to contribute back to society through conservation efforts under Mission Life: “Let us not forget, true progress lies in maintaining harmony with nature. The most powerful creature, like the tiger, also teaches us humility. That is the essence of ecological balance.”

Also gracing the occasion were dignitaries including Union Minister of State (MoEFCC), Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, along with a diverse group of stakeholders including government officials, frontline forest staff, scientists, conservationists, NGOs, students, and community representatives. The presence of different stakeholders highlighted the collective, multi-stakeholder effort required to sustain and build upon the gains made in tiger conservation.