Tributes Pour In for Valmik Thapar, India's Renowned Tiger Conservationist

Valmik Thapar: A Legacy in Tiger Conservation
New Delhi, May 31: Valmik Thapar, one of India's most prominent advocates for tiger conservation, passed away at his residence on Kautilya Marg in the national capital on Saturday morning after a prolonged battle with cancer.
Affectionately known as the 'Tiger Man of India', Thapar, aged 73, was involved in over 150 committees at both central and state levels.
With a career spanning four decades, Thapar was a pivotal figure in wildlife conservation, co-founding the Ranthambhore Foundation in 1988, which focuses on community-driven wildlife preservation.
He was a staunch advocate for stricter anti-poaching regulations and the protection of natural habitats for tigers.
Thapar's father, Romesh Thapar, was a distinguished journalist, and he was married to theatre artist Sanjana Kapoor, with whom he had a son named Hamir.
Inspired by Fateh Singh Rathore, a notable conservationist and a key player in Project Tiger, Thapar's bond with 'Macchli', a famous tigress, is well-documented in his writings.
In 2005, he served on the Tiger Task Force during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, where he notably disagreed with the prevailing optimism regarding human-tiger coexistence.
Following his passing, numerous condolences emerged from various quarters.
Former Environment Minister and Congress leader Jairam Ramesh expressed his sorrow, stating that Thapar's loss is significant. He shared on the social media platform X, "Valmik Thapar, a legendary figure in conservation, especially regarding tigers, has just passed away. It is a great loss."
Ramesh highlighted Thapar's extensive knowledge on biodiversity issues and noted their frequent discussions during his ministerial tenure, emphasizing the educational value of their exchanges.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed his condolences, stating, "Deeply saddened to learn about the passing of noted conservationist, author, and naturalist, Valmik Thapar. He was a leading authority on tiger conservation and one of India's most respected wildlife experts."
Thapar's cremation is scheduled for 3:30 PM at the Lodhi Electric Crematorium.