SC: Directions on Tiger Safaris; States Must Notify Eco-Sensitive Zones

The Supreme Court issued comprehensive directions to regulate tiger safaris across India and mandated all States to notify Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) around tiger reserves. It expressed concern about unregulated tourism, commercialization, and ecological degradation. The Court emphasized that tiger safaris should be conducted only in buffer zones, not core areas, to protect fragile ecosystems. It also reminded states of their statutory duty under the Wildlife Protection Act to preserve habitats and maintain biodiversity. The ruling ensures stricter environmental governance, scientific management of reserves, and controlled human intervention. States were asked to file compliance reports and update conservation measures.