Supreme Court Establishes New Guidelines for Tiger Reserves and Safaris Across India

Comprehensive directives issued for ecological restoration, management, and regulation of Tiger Reserves to ensure wildlife protection and sustainable tourism.

In a landmark judgment delivered on November 17, 2025, the Supreme Court of India has laid down extensive guidelines aimed at the effective management and protection of Tiger Reserves and Safaris across the country. The judgment, delivered by a bench comprising Chief Justice B.R. Gavai, Justice Augustine George Masih, and Justice A.S. Chandurkar, follows a series of detailed recommendations made by an Expert Committee constituted in the wake of previous court directions.

The court categorically prohibited the establishment of Tiger Safaris in core or critical tiger habitat areas, allowing them only on non-forest or degraded forest land within buffer zones that are not part of tiger corridors. Furthermore, these safaris must be associated with a full-fledged rescue and rehabilitation center for tigers, focusing on conflict, injured, or abandoned animals.

The ruling also mandates that all State Governments notify Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) around Tiger Reserves, including buffer and fringe areas, within one year. This move aims to harmonize conservation efforts with sustainable development practices, imposing restrictions on activities like mining and pollution within these zones.

Emphasizing a shift towards ecocentric policies, the court approved guidelines for Tiger Safaris to ensure they operate under strict regulatory regimes. These include using eco-friendly vehicles, maintaining zero wastewater discharge, and adhering to NTCA protocols. The court also directed that the revenue generated from such safaris be reinvested into Tiger Conservation Foundations for furthering conservation objectives.

The judgment extends beyond Tiger Safaris, as it outlines a comprehensive plan for the management of Tiger Reserves on a pan-India basis. This includes directives for human resource development, timely funding, conflict management, and green infrastructure development. The court also addressed the regulation of religious tourism within Tiger Reserves to minimize ecological disturbances, advocating for a balanced approach that respects both religious and environmental concerns.

Acknowledging the critical role of tigers in maintaining ecological balance, the court's decision reflects India's commitment to global conservation efforts and sustainable development goals. The directions aim to fortify India's position as a leader in wildlife conservation, ensuring the protection of its rich biodiversity for future generations.

Statutory provision(s): Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 Sections 33(a), 38V; Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 Section 173(2); Prevention and Corruption Act, 1988 Section 13(2) read with 13(1)(a); Indian Forest Act, 1927 Sections 26-1(f) & (h); Forest Conservation Act,1980 Section 2(iv) (read with Section 3A & 3B); Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 Sections 27(2)(a), 27(4) & 35(6) read with Section 51; Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000; Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 Section 2(b).

T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India, (SC) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2809446