The Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh has officially been designated a tiger reserve on Monday (December 2) following in-principle approval from the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change through the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

The development is expected to bring multiple benefits to the region. Officials highlighted that the new status would enhance conservation efforts and open up economic opportunities for local communities through ecotourism, The Indian Express reported.

“Eco-development programs are also set to provide further support to the region’s inhabitants,” an official told the newspaper.

As a tiger reserve, Ratapani will receive funding from the NTCA, ensuring better management and conservation measures.

The designation also delineates a core area of 763.8 square kilometers and a buffer area of 507.6 square kilometers, making the total reserve area 1,271.4 square kilometers. This marks the eighth tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh.

Nestled in the Vindhya Hills, Ratapani is home to the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside historical and religious landmarks.

Located in Raisen district, the sanctuary is known for its lush teak forests and is situated less than 50 kilometers from Bhopal.

The notification, issued under Section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, recognizes the core area as a critical tiger habitat. Nine revenue villages, covering 26.947 square kilometers, have been integrated into the buffer zone.

The announcement follows the recent approval to declare Madhav National Park a tiger reserve. A government communication on December 1 indicated that the formal notification for Madhav National Park would be issued within 15 days.