No wonder that Tiger, the majestic beast be the National Animal of India. But what is amazing that we are unable to protect or preserve even these stately species under our canopy. We have been heard of it since our childhood, we have been adored it for all these years, we have been scared of it even if it is behind the bars. Here, Shruthi Parasuram, a tenth standard student from Kerala,highlights the distressing plight of this ‘royal ambush’, which is under the threats of ebb and ‘who cares’ attitude as to a back-end and left to survive only in the national parks .

Just 1411 left..

During the past few weeks, we’ve been coming across this title in most of the newspapers, magazines and posters. But I wonder, how many have taken this nudge seriously? .Right from my childhood, I’ve been taught by my parents and teachers that Tiger is the national animal of our country. I remember myself telling “wow!” staring at him from outside his cage at the zoo. The beauty of its lined body, the pride in its face, the words in the lexicon are scarce to explain all these. The animal truly deserves to be the national animal of a country like India which is known for its diversity.

Now, taking in view the present conditions, it’s very depressing to realize that the future generation will be able to see this beautiful creature only through pictures. Yes, as per the latest census reports, only 1411 tigers are left in India. Just imagine the situation when the national animal itself has become extinct. Ridiculous!

Besides several efforts to protect this species, the attitude of the countrymen has not changed as far as my observation is concerned. Most of the television channels have initiated programmes to create awareness amongst the people and to prevent unmindful poaching. I’ve seen my friends changing the channel once this comes on T.V. When once I asked why they were not interested in it, the answer I received was “who cares?” .But friends, we must care. If we the Indians don’t care for our own national animal, then who else will? There is no denying the fact that the Government has made concerted efforts to raise the tiger population. One of the most successful of these was “The Project Tiger” as all of us know. But without public support the Government cannot do anything.

So friends, please take this seriously and do all that you can, to preserve our national heritage. If humans have been able to invent wonders like computers and internet, is it this simple thing that we cannot do?

SHRUTHI PARASURAM, Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Kolazhi,Trichur

Related posts:

1. All About Kids Part III
2. All About Kids-I