By Govind Singh •
August 9, 2009
‘Kids for Tigers’ Aerial Art with the President of India’s House in the vicinity
It was the famous cricketer Sachin Tendulkar who declared that he now bats for the tiger. It is the former Indian cricket captain Saurav Ganguly who is referred to as the Bengal Tiger. But it was another ace Indian cricketer and a favorite of many, Rahul Dravid, who took part in the 5th Bengal Tiger Consultation and Tiger Rally. And as someone who was there to learn and do something about the drastically reducing tiger numbers in the country.
By Govind Singh •
March 21, 2009
This could not have come at a more appropriate time. Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, arguably the greatest international cricketer to have ever walked the face of the earth dedicated his most recent Test century at Hamilton, to the tiger. Tiger conservation to be precise. He was later also quoted stating that the entire Indian cricket team supported the cause of the critically endangered species, whose numbers have been dropping alarmingly in the wild. Further in his message, Tendulkar said, “This majestic species is a symbol of India’s rich and diverse wildlife heritage. It is in our best interests to ensure that this magnificent animal is not wiped out.
The tiger population in India has dropped by another 17 since January 1st this year and poaching, poisoning, old age and infighting are the reasons cited by the officials. And even as laws are being tightened after each confiscation of tiger body parts, the massive demand of a market in China ensures tigers are valued more dead than alive and that poachers continue to be active. The message by Sachin is being seen as a shot in the arm for tiger conservation something that will be verified over time.
