Overview

• Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced on International Tiger Day that India’s tiger population has reached a record 3,682 across 58 reserves under robust central leadership.
• A 2024 survey in Kaziranga Tiger Reserve identified 148 tigers at 18 per 100 sq km, ranking it third globally in density after Bandipur and Corbett.
• Mudumalai Tiger Reserve recorded a 28% increase to 165 tigers, with officials crediting anti-poaching patrols, swamp restoration and invasive species removal.
• Authorities launched the Tigers Outside Tiger Reserves project covering 80 forest divisions after NTCA data showed over 50% of tiger deaths occurred beyond protected areas.
• The forest department began relocating residents from 35 villages in Palamau Reserve’s core zone, while India’s International Big Cat Alliance grew to 24 member countries.