What is M-STrIPES (Monitoring System for Tigers: Intensive Protection and Ecological Status) ?

M-STrIPES (Monitoring System for Tigers: Intensive Protection and Ecological Status) is an IT-based advanced monitoring system used in India for the protection, surveillance, and scientific management of tigers and other wildlife. Recently, forest personnel have been using the M-STrIPES application during tiger and wildlife census operations in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve.

Background of M-STrIPES

• M-STrIPES is a software-based monitoring system.
• It was launched in 2010.
• Developed by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
• The system strengthens patrolling, protection, and conservation in tiger reserves.

Key Objectives of M-STrIPES

• Effective monitoring of tigers and other wildlife
• Control over illegal activities in protected areas
• Data-driven decision-making for wildlife conservation
• Enhancing efficiency and transparency in reserve management

Components of the M-STrIPES System

M-STrIPES consists of two major components:

1. Central Desktop Software

• Centralized data collection and analysis
• Use of GIS and statistical tools
• Online analytical tools and engines

2. Android-Based Mobile Application

• Real-time GPS tracking
• Field-based observations and reporting
• Data recording during patrols

Technologies Used

M-STrIPES is based on the following modern technologies:

• GPS (Global Positioning System)
• GPRS (General Packet Radio Service)
• Remote Sensing
• GIS (Geographical Information System)

Working Mechanism of M-STrIPES

• Each forest guard conducts regular patrols within their beat area.
• During patrols, the guard:
  • Records routes and footprints using GPS.
  • Documents sightings of wildlife, signs of poaching, and illegal activities.
• All information is stored in a digital database.
• GIS and statistical analysis are used to generate insights.
• This supports better planning and resource management for tiger reserve authorities.

Important Fact: In India, the smallest administrative unit of forest management is the “Beat”, generally managed by a Forest Guard.

Anamalai Tiger Reserve

Geographical Location

• Located in the Anamalai Hills
• Situated in the southern Western Ghats, south of the Palakkad Gap
• Adjacent protected areas:
  • East – Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
  • South-West – Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Nearby – Eravikulam National Park

Indigenous Tribal Communities

The reserve is inhabited by six indigenous communities:

• Kadar,Mudugar,Malasar,Malai Malasar,Eravallar and Pulayar

Flora (Vegetation)

The reserve supports diverse forest types:

• Tropical evergreen forests,Semi-evergreen forests,Moist deciduous forests,Dry deciduous forests,Dry thorn forests, Shola forests

Other distinctive habitats include:

• Montane grasslands
• Savannas
• Marshy grasslands

The region is rich in wild relatives of agricultural crops, such as:

• Mango, jackfruit, wild banana
• Ginger, turmeric
• Black pepper, cardamom

Fauna (Wildlife)

Major wildlife species found in Anamalai Tiger Reserve include:

• Tiger,Asian Elephant,Leopard,Sambar,Spotted Deer (Chital),Barking Deer,Jackal,Jungle Cat