In a significant conservation decision, the Maharashtra Forest Department has approved the release of two conflict tigers, TUI-22 and TUI-25, back into the wild after a state-level committee found them fit for rehabilitation.
Both four-year-old male tigers were captured in March from separate locations in Nagpur Forest Division following human-wildlife conflict incidents. TUI-22 was linked to a fatal attack on a woman and repeated livestock kills in Deolapar, while TUI-25 was involved in cattle depredation cases in Parseoni.
After being shifted to the Transit Treatment Centre (TTC) at Seminary Hills, Nagpur, the tigers underwent detailed health and behavioural assessments. Veterinary experts found both animals healthy, disease-free, and capable of surviving independently in the wild.
Based on recommendations made during a state-level committee meeting on April 30, formal orders for their release were issued on May 11. Forest officials said the tigers will be soft-released at separate locations once weather conditions become favourable.
Wildlife experts stated that suitable habitats with adequate prey and minimal human interference have been identified for the release. The move marks only the second known instance in Maharashtra where a captured conflict tiger has been rehabilitated and released back into the wild.
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