International Tiger Day: Significance, Objectives, Quotes and Slogans

29 July is observed as International Tiger Day globally.  It is also known as Global Tiger Day. Tiger is the most iconic species of the cat family known for its strength and ferocity. It is also among the world’s charismatic megafauna. Despite its significance, the population of tigers had sharply declined in the 20th century. Poaching of tigers for furs and other monetary gains has been the topmost reason for decline in tiger population.  Fortunately, the continuous decline rate has now come to halt and the population graph has started rising again.

India, which is now home to 70% of the world’s tiger population, has played an important role in tiger conservation. It launched an initiative in 1973 named Project Tiger. The program has been a success so far. Apart from India, countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Russia, and China have also taken significant steps towards tiger conservation.

Objective of International Tiger Day

International Tiger Day is celebrated every year with an objective to raise awareness and support the cause of tiger conservation. It also plays a critical role in promoting a global system for protecting the natural habitats of the tiger community.

History

The observance of International Tiger Day was created at the Saint Petersberg Tiger Summit in the year 2010. Since then, the day is being observed each year. This year marks the 10th anniversary of International Tiger Day.

Tiger Conservation

As on date, only about 3,900 tigers remain in the wild. This is certainly not a good news. While some past efforts have shown positive outcomes, the pace of such efforts is not enough. Much more work is left to be done in this field to secure the future of the tiger in the wild.  An international governance network named CITES (The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) has been playing a  critical role in tiger conservation globally. Countries becoming a member of CITES have to adhere to an international trade ban on tiger and associated products.

Currently, there are 13 nations wherein tigers can roam freely. These are called Tiger Range Countries or TRC. CITES work in close coordination with the NGOs, Civil Society and Government of these countries to effectively implement the plans for handling the tiger population.  On a national level, countries are making various efforts not only to contain the decline in the tiger population but to increase it eventually.

Despite some improvements, tigers continue to exist amid constant risk. Unrelenting pressures of poachers, retaliatory killings, and habitat loss  – continue to be a significant threat to their existence. Thus, an integrated effort of all the stakeholders is the need of the hour.

International Tiger Day: Quotes, Slogans & Messages

Quotes

“The Tiger in many countries, particularly India, represents the apex of the animal pyramid and the protection of their habitat should be a worldwide priority.” ― Dr. Karan Singh

“Humankind must learn to understand that the life of an animal is in no way less precious than our own.” ― Paul Oxton

“As humans, we are fortunate to fight to secure so many rights: men’s rights, women’s rights, freedom of speech. But animals like tigers are losing their right to live. It is time we all support their most fundamental right – the right to exist!” ― Gyalwa Dokhampa

“Conservation is life…” ― Kedar Dhepe

“To save the Jungle, we have to save the tiger.” ― Rahul Wasulkar

“Wildlife in the world can only be protected by the love of compassionate hearts in the world!” ― Mehmet Murat ildan

“If we can teach people about wildlife, they will be touched. Share my wildlife with me. Because humans want to save things that they love.” ― Steve Irwin

Slogans & Messages

“Tiger is a symbol of Beauty, Bravery, Strength and Nationality. So Save the Tiger, Save the Nation’s Pride.”

“International Tiger Day will always bring our focus on reducing numbers of tigers. They are shouting for help!”

“Save the Tigers before they are silenced forever.”

“Don’t strip the stripes from the scenery: Save the Tiger.”

“Let your children see the Tigers, don’t let them be a part of history.”

“For the tiger we must unite, so they don’t fade out of sight.”

“Tiger is a Symbol of Beauty, Bravery, Strength and Nationality So Save the Tiger, Save the Nation Pride.”

“Mighty tigers hear them roar, for they may be no more.”