India’s First White Tiger Breeding Centre Approved in MP

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) has approved India’s first white tiger breeding centre in Madhya Pradesh’s Rewa district. This initiative marks a significant step in wildlife conservation, especially since Rewa is historically linked to the last known wild white tiger. The project, initially approved in principle in 2011, will be established in Govindgarh, near the state’s only white tiger safari in Mukundpur. The breeding centre is expected to enhance biodiversity conservation, promote wildlife tourism, and create job opportunities for the local population.

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 initiated a white tiger breeding and conservation programme, leading to the global spread 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.