The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) has approved India’s first white tiger breeding centre in Madhya Pradesh’s Rewa district. This initiative is a major advancement in wildlife conservation, particularly because Rewa is historically associated with the last known wild white tiger. The project, which received initial approval in 2011, will be set up in Govindgarh, close to the state’s only white tiger safari in Mukundpur. The breeding centre aims to boost biodiversity conservation, encourage wildlife tourism, and generate job opportunities for the local community.
Key Highlights
Approval & Location
- CZA has given the final approval for the centre.
- It will be set up in Govindgarh, Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh.
- The Mukundpur White Tiger Safari, located 10 km away, is the state’s only existing white tiger tourism facility.
Historical Significance
- Rewa is known as the home of Mohan, the last wild white tiger, discovered in Govindgarh jungle in 1951 by Maharaja Martand Singh Judeo.
- The maharaja started a breeding and conservation program for white tigers, which resulted in the worldwide proliferation of white tigers in captivity.
Government & Conservation Efforts
- The centre is part of a revised master plan for the Maharaja Martand Singh Judeo White Tiger Safari and Zoo in Mukundpur.
- Deputy CM Rajendra Shukla emphasized the state’s commitment to biodiversity conservation.
- The initiative is expected to boost wildlife tourism and generate employment opportunities for locals.
