On a learning mission in Ranthambore on the dwindling tiger population, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh [Images] on Tuesday described the situation as serious and emphasised the need for improvement in national parks management in the country.

Dr Singh, who held detailed discussions with wildlife officials and experts from across the country during his two-day stay in Ranthambore, told reporters that more effective ways and means were needed to tackle the problem.

After taking a round of the national park, where he spotted a tigress, Dr Singh said the future of the big cat is in 'our hands and if we do not act, we will be doing irretrievable damage'.

The prime minister said he heard problems and suggestions during his meetings with forest officials and assured them that sincere action would be taken after the task force set up by him presented its report in two months.

• Tiger task force calls for red alert

He said the primary aim of his tour of Ranthambore was to gain firsthand information on problems and challenges confronting the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.

Singh said his interaction and visit has revealed certain issues which needed to be tackled so that the forest heritage is sustained and preserved for future generations.

He said the challenges appeared to be of two distinct categories -- one related to forest parks management and the other related to forest-human interface.

"Our forest parks management needs to be improved through better physical, financial, managerial and technical resources so that they can perform their tasks more effectively," Dr Singh said.