Agartala, May 24: In a significant boost to wildlife conservation efforts in Tripura, three tiger cubs were born naturally at Sepahijala Zoo, marking what Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma called a “historic moment” for the state and a sign of improved ecological conditions.
During an impromptu visit to the zoo on Friday, Minister Debbarma expressed optimism about the development. “Despite multiple failed attempts in the past, Sepahijala Zoo’s environment has finally become conducive to tiger breeding. The birth of these cubs signals ecological progress and renewed hope for tiger conservation in Tripura,” he said.
Tigers were first introduced at Sepahijala Zoo in 1998, but the initial effort failed due to the animals’ inability to adapt. A second attempt in 2006 also proved unsuccessful. Between 2015 and 2023, the zoo remained without any tigers. However, a breakthrough came in 2024, when a pair of tigers was brought in from West Bengal—and within months, the tigress gave birth to three healthy cubs.
During his visit, the Minister observed the mother and her cubs through live CCTV footage installed in a protected forest enclosure. “The cubs looked healthy, playful, and closely bonded with their mother,” he noted.
Zoo authorities have placed the tigress and her offspring in a secluded, naturalistic zone to minimize human interference. Veterinary experts are monitoring their health, and the mother is receiving dietary supplements to aid in recovery and nursing.
Minister Debbarma urged the public to take greater interest in wildlife conservation, stating, “Every species plays a critical role in our ecosystem. This rare success should inspire a stronger, collective commitment to protect our wildlife.”
The state government plans to closely track the cubs’ development and consider expanding conservation initiatives based on this encouraging outcome.
