India's 'Tiger Man' Valmik Thapar dies after battling cancer

He was 73.

He died at his residence in Delhi.

Thapar dedicated four decades of his life to the preservation of landscape.

He will be remembered for his contribution to tiger conservation in the country.

Thapar co-founded the Ranthambhore Foundation in 1988.

In his life, Thapar had advocated for stronger anti-poaching laws and preserving natural habitats for tigers.

Reacting to his death, Congress leader and former environment minister Jairam Ramesh wrote on X: "Valmik Thapar, a legendary figure in the world of conservation over the past four decades - especially tigers - has just passed away. It is a great loss. "

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said: "Valmik Thapar was a force of nature. A pioneer and champion of the cause of conservation, a man who lived life by his own rules, spoke fearlessly and fought courageously for what he believed in. "

She further said: "My deepest respect and admiration for him and for his unmatched contribution to Wildlife conservation, especially to the protection of tigers in India. He was a friend and a source of inspiration to me."

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi wrote on X: " Valmik Thapar ji was a towering figure in Indian conservation and a passionate voice for our wildlife, especially the tiger." "His life’s work was devoted to protecting our natural heritage and inspiring generations with his fearlessness and unwavering commitment.My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who admired him," he said.