Nepal has launched a new $4.5 million conservation project to manage human–tiger conflict and promote peaceful coexistence in tiger habitats across the country.
The initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Forests and Environment and WWF Nepal. It is funded under the Global Environment Facility-8 (GEF-8) program and will run for five years.
The project is titled “Managing Human–Tiger Interface in Nepal.” The ministry will lead implementation, while WWF Nepal will support the project as a technical and funding partner.
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What the Project Will Do
The program will focus on practical, community-based solutions. Its key goals include:
- Improving tiger habitat management
- Reducing human–wildlife conflict
- Supporting alternative livelihoods for local communities
- Strengthening conservation knowledge and systems
These actions aim to protect both people and wildlife.
Focus on Community and Coexistence
WWF Nepal Country Representative Dr. Ghana Shyam Gurung said the project promotes long-term coexistence.
“This project will help communities and wildlife live safely together,” he said. “It will create models that can be used in other tiger-range countries across Asia.”
Protecting Tigers and People
Nepal has made strong progress in tiger conservation through habitat protection, anti-poaching efforts, and community conservation programs. However, rising tiger numbers and expanding settlements have increased the risk of conflict.
The new project aims to solve this challenge by balancing conservation, safety, and development.
Dr. Rajendra KC from the Ministry of Forests and Environment said the project supports sustainable development.
“Coexistence protects biodiversity and improves the lives of local communities,” he said.
