I am writing with reference to an article by Barun Mitra carried on
August 15, 2006 in your newspaper. The article is based on
misinformation fed to Mr. Mitra by owners of Chinese tiger farms. Such
an article can do immense harm to conservation of tigers in the wild and
is based on false economics. There is no shortage of tigers in zoos and
private captivity in many countries of the world because tigers in
captivity are prolific breeders. Most such facilities have stopped or
reduced breeding of tigers. Tigers do breed well in the wild as well if
there is suitable habitat, prey and protection. Unfortunately, there is
substantial pressure on wild tigers and hence there is a perceptible
decline. If the tide does not turn, there is a real possibility of
extiction of wild tigers.
Market ecnomics cannot apply to every situation. If it could, the
world would be breeding human babies to meet the demand for body parts
needed to alleviate human suffering.
