Untold Story of Tigers of Nagzira National Park (Jai and Veeru)

By JAGAT [20-May-25] Nestled in the verdant landscapes of Maharashtra's Gondia and Bhandara districts the Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary—now an integral part of the Nawegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve (NNTR)—stands as a testament to India's enduring commitment to wildlife conservation. This sanctuary often referred to as a "green oasis," is not only a haven for diverse flora and fauna but also plays a pivotal role in the preservation of the majestic Bengal tiger.

A Sanctuary's Genesis and its Evolution History

Established in 1970, Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary was carved out of forests once ruled by the Gond kings. Recognizing its ecological significance the area was incorporated into Project Tiger in 2012, leading to the formation of the NNTR in 2013. Spanning approximately 653 square kilometres, the reserve encompasses the Nawegaon National Park - Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, New Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, Koka Wildlife Sanctuary and Nawegaon Wildlife Sanctuary.

The Tiger's Realm of Nagzira National Park

The NNTR serves as a critical corridor for tiger movement between Pench Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra and Indravati Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh, facilitating genetic diversity and population stability. As of the 2022 National Tiger Monitoring Report the reserve is home to 12 tigers excluding cubs. Despite its relatively modest size, the sanctuary boasts a rich tapestry of biodiversity, including 34 species of mammals, 166 species of birds, 36 species of reptiles, and four species of amphibians.

Unsaid Story of Legends of the Forest: Jai and Veeru

Among the tigers that have roamed Nagzira the duo named Jai and Veeru stand out. Born in 2010 to the formidable tigress A-Mark, these siblings captivated wildlife enthusiasts with their majestic presence. Jai known for his dominance eventually migrated to the Umred-Karhandla Sanctuary becoming one of India's most talked-about tigers. Veeru, identifiable by a distinctive V-shaped mark on his forehead tragically passed away in 2019 due to injuries.

To bolster the tiger population and mitigate inbreeding risks, conservationists initiated a translocation project introducing tigresses from the Bramhapuri landscape into the NNTR. In 2024, two young tigresses were released, followed by another in April of the same year. However, challenges persist. Territorial disputes have led to tiger fatalities and the lack of administrative control over the unified buffer zones hampers effective management.

Nagzira's significance transcends its boundaries. As a vital link in India's tiger conservation network, its preservation is paramount. Continued efforts in habitat protection, community involvement, and scientific research are essential to ensure that the Tigers of Nagzira continue to thrive, embodying the wild spirit of Maharashtra's eastern wilderness.