Discuss the core–buffer zoning of tiger reserves. How far can eco-tourism in buffer zones be reconciled with conservation?

Tiger reserves are split into two zones. The core is kept inviolate for tigers. The buffer is a "multiple use area" with a conservation bias [1][2]. Eco-tourism in the buffer can work alongside conservation only if it stays regulated, keeps out of corridors and benefits local communities.

Core–Buffer Zoning: Design and Purpose

• Core / Critical Tiger Habitat: an inviolate space for a breeding tiger population. Grazing, collection of minor forest produce and human settlement are not allowed there [1][2].
• Tourism cap: at most 20% of the core may be opened to tourism [1].
• Buffer: surrounds the core and keeps it connected to other forest. It absorbs dispersing sub-adults and transient tigers and shields the core from biotic pressure [1].
• Legal layering: NTCA advises that the entire buffer be notified as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 [2].

[ Core: inviolate ] → [ Buffer: regulated multiple use ] → [ ESZ / landscape ]

Zoning works as a gradient: human use rises as you move away from the core.

Eco-tourism in Buffers: Where It Fits Conservation

• Livelihoods: income from homestays and guiding builds local support and reduces dependence on the forest. Guidelines favour community-managed homestays [3].
• Less pressure on the core: tourism moved out to the buffer eases crowding in the inviolate core [1].
• Legal guardrails: the Supreme Court barred new permanent structures in ESZs in 2022, then in 2023 allowed activities that strictly follow the 2011 MoEFCC ESZ guidelines [3]. Eco-friendly facilities are permitted only on non-forest land [3].

Where Reconciliation Breaks Down

• Corridors: new resorts are prohibited in tiger corridors [3]. Fenced resorts break up habitat and increase human–wildlife conflict.
• Enforcement deficit: CAG found ESZ notification delayed around Rajasthan's tiger reserves. It also found unapproved commercial shops still running in Sariska [4].
• Post-notification construction: Karnataka has ordered action against illegal resorts and homestays in its ESZ and buffer areas [5].

Way Forward

• Notify ESZs on time and prepare Zonal and Tourism Master Plans based on carrying capacity.
• Clear corridors first. Give genuine local homestays a legal route to permission.

Eco-tourism in buffers can be reconciled with conservation to a substantial but conditional extent. That depends on rule-based zoning, firm corridor protection and community benefit. If tourism stays within carrying capacity, buffers can protect the core as intended, in line with Article 48A and SDG 15.