Valmik Thapar, a pivotal conservationist who passionately advocated for tiger protection in India, has died at the age of 72. His tireless efforts contributed to the growth of tiger populations, as he fought against poaching, habitat loss, and inadequate governmental support.
Valmik Thapar: Revered Conservationist Passes Away at 72
Valmik Thapar: Revered Conservationist Passes Away at 72
Valmik Thapar, a renowned figure in tiger conservation, has passed away after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to wildlife protection.
Valmik Thapar, the celebrated conservationist and advocate for India's tigers, has died at his home in New Delhi. Born in 1952, Thapar dedicated his life to the protection of these majestic animals, starting his journey at a wildlife reserve in 1976. He leaves a remarkable legacy in wildlife conservation, with significant achievements in combating poaching and habitat destruction through his innovative approaches and eloquent communication.
In a statement released by his family, it was confirmed that Thapar succumbed to cancer on May 31. Known for his larger-than-life personality, Thapar was described as loud, articulate, and fiercely uncompromising when it came to advocating for the tigers. His belief centered around the necessity of “inviolate protected areas” for wildlife, free from human encroachment.
Ravi Singh, the CEO of the World Wildlife Fund-India, acknowledged Thapar's dedication, stating, “He was not an institutional person, but he was an institution unto himself due to his knowledge and sensitivity.” Ullas Karanth, former director of the Wildlife Conservation Society in India, highlighted Thapar's significant role in raising awareness about the pressing “tiger crisis,” leveraging his extensive political and media contacts.
Throughout the decades, Thapar championed the cause of India's tigers as their population plummeted from around 40,000 in the 1950s to just 1,411 by 2006. However, his and others' conservation efforts have successfully contributed to the rise in tiger numbers, reaching 3,682 in 2022. The Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, where Thapar developed his passion for tigers, showcased remarkable recovery from about 15 tigers in 2006 to roughly 70 by 2022, demonstrating the impact of dedicated conservation initiatives.
Thapar's legacy will continue to inspire future generations in their fight for wildlife conservation and the preservation of endangered species, underscoring the vital need for protection of habitats worldwide.
In a statement released by his family, it was confirmed that Thapar succumbed to cancer on May 31. Known for his larger-than-life personality, Thapar was described as loud, articulate, and fiercely uncompromising when it came to advocating for the tigers. His belief centered around the necessity of “inviolate protected areas” for wildlife, free from human encroachment.
Ravi Singh, the CEO of the World Wildlife Fund-India, acknowledged Thapar's dedication, stating, “He was not an institutional person, but he was an institution unto himself due to his knowledge and sensitivity.” Ullas Karanth, former director of the Wildlife Conservation Society in India, highlighted Thapar's significant role in raising awareness about the pressing “tiger crisis,” leveraging his extensive political and media contacts.
Throughout the decades, Thapar championed the cause of India's tigers as their population plummeted from around 40,000 in the 1950s to just 1,411 by 2006. However, his and others' conservation efforts have successfully contributed to the rise in tiger numbers, reaching 3,682 in 2022. The Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, where Thapar developed his passion for tigers, showcased remarkable recovery from about 15 tigers in 2006 to roughly 70 by 2022, demonstrating the impact of dedicated conservation initiatives.
Thapar's legacy will continue to inspire future generations in their fight for wildlife conservation and the preservation of endangered species, underscoring the vital need for protection of habitats worldwide.
