Q1. With reference to tiger conservation and protected areas in India, consider the following statements:
- The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is a statutory body constituted under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006.
- Every National Park in India is necessarily a Tiger Reserve notified under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Tiger Reserves may include areas beyond the boundaries of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
- The NTCA is responsible for declaring National Parks in India.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is Correct: NTCA is a statutory body established under Section 38L of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, through the 2006 amendment.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: National Parks and Tiger Reserves are distinct legal and administrative categories. Not every National Park is a Tiger Reserve.
- Statement 3 is Correct: A Tiger Reserve generally consists of a core or critical tiger habitat and a buffer area. These areas need not be confined to National Parks or Wildlife Sanctuaries.
- Statement 4 is Incorrect: National Parks are declared by State Governments under Section 35 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. NTCA's primary mandate relates to tiger conservation.
