2nd International Tiger Forum, Vladivostok, Russia

Commemorative Postage Stamp on 2nd International Tiger Forum: Celebrating India’s Tiger Conservation Legacy

The relationship between humankind and animals has always shaped civilizations. In India, the land of Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, the principle of non-violence (Ahimsa) is deeply ingrained in philosophy and culture. Animals are revered as companions of gods and goddesses—among them, the tiger, the majestic vehicle of Goddess Durga, symbolizing power and abundance.

Project Tiger: India’s Conservation Milestone

Recognizing the urgent need to protect its national animal—the tiger, the Government of India launched Project Tiger in 1973. Initially spanning nine reserves across nine states, the project covered about 14,000 sq. km. Over the decades, the initiative has expanded to 52 tiger reserves across 18 states, protecting an area of more than 74,000 sq. km, including both critical habitats and buffer zones.

Thanks to these relentless efforts, India today is home to nearly 70% of the world’s wild tiger population among the 13 tiger range countries. Project Tiger has been instrumental in placing this endangered species on the path to recovery, safeguarding ecosystems and co-predators in the process.

Global Recognition and the St. Petersburg Declaration

In November 2010, the Russian Federation hosted the first International Tiger Forum in St. Petersburg, where world leaders pledged to double the global wild tiger population by 2022 under the Global Tiger Recovery Program. Remarkably, India not only met but achieved this goal ahead of schedule, establishing itself as a global leader in tiger conservation.

2nd International Tiger Forum and Stamp Release

As the conservation community gathers for the 2nd International Tiger Forum, the event serves to review progress, set new priorities, and strengthen global cooperation. To mark this historic occasion, the Russian Federation issued a special postage stamp, and India, in recognition of its leadership role, proudly releases a Commemorative Postage Stamp on the 2nd International Tiger Forum.

Tribute to Collarwali – The Legendary Tigress of Pench

This commemorative stamp also honors ‘Collarwali,’ the celebrated tigress of Pench Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, who passed away in January 2022. Fondly known as the “Super Mom,” Collarwali gave birth to 29 cubs, of which 25 survived into adulthood—a remarkable contribution to sustaining India’s tiger population.

A Philatelic Tribute to Conservation

The Commemorative Postage Stamp on the 2nd International Tiger Forum symbolizes not only India’s triumph in tiger conservation but also the spirit of global collaboration to protect wildlife and ecosystems. It is a fitting philatelic tribute to both Project Tiger and the unforgettable legacy of Collarwali, the mother of Pench.