Vijayawada, July 29: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy directed the

officials to continue effective measures to protect tigers and officials informed the Chief Minister

that there are 63 tigers in the state now.

World Tigers Day was observed at the Chief Minister’s Office here today. During the event, the CM also donned the cap and mask provided by the officials and posed for a

photograph with young officers.

Marking the occasion, the Chief Minister unveiled a book and posters featuring images of 63 tigers.

He also approved the procurement of vehicles for officials and employees working in Tiger Reserve areas.

Briefing the measures being taken to protect tigers, the officials said the number of tigers

had increased due to the steps being taken up by the government. They said the count of big cats

had risen to 63 from 47 compared to previous year. They said the tigers had spread from Nallamala to Seshachalam in AP and they could be seen in Kadapa and Chittoor districts.

Forest, Environment Minister Balineni Srinivasa Reddy, Principal Chief Conservator N Prateep Kumar, Forest and Environment Secretary Vijay Kumar and other officials were present.(UNI)