India has achieved a remarkable milestone, boasting the world’s largest tiger population. According to a recent study published on February 1, 2025, the number of tigers has doubled to over 3,600 within just over a decade, making up approximately 75% of the global tiger count.
This significant increase has taken place against the backdrop of India’s unique challenges—despite having the highest human density and only 18% of the world’s tiger habitat. Tigers now inhabit roughly 138,200 square kilometers, equivalent to half the size of the United Kingdom, sharing this space with around 60 million people.
The success of this conservation effort can be attributed to multiple factors, including the protection of tigers from poaching and habitat loss, the assurance of ample prey, and the conscious reduction of human-wildlife conflict. Researchers have pointed out the importance of uplifting local communities living near tiger habitats, thereby making conservation beneficial for all parties involved.
Yadvendradev Vikramsinh Jhala, lead author of the study, remarked, “We think human densities are detrimental to conservation of large carnivores [like tigers]. But more than density it is the attitude of people.” This statement suggests it isn’t merely the number of humans, but rather their attitudes and relationships with wildlife, which make all the difference.
The study indicates since 2006, tiger surveys have undergone rigorous assessments every four years across 20 states, tracking the distribution of tigers, their co-predators, prey, and habitat quality. From this analysis, it was found tiger habitats grew by about 30%, equivalent to 2,929 square kilometers annually.
Interestingly, the coexistence of tigers with communities greatly varies across India. Jhala highlighted states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, and Karnataka, where tigers thrive alongside high human densities, benefitting from community support through ecotourism initiatives. "The common belief is human densities preclude increase in tiger populations... it's the attitude of people which matters more," Jhala noted, underscoring the importance of positive relationships with wildlife.
Conversely, regions such as Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand have faced challenges where poaching and historical bushmeat hunting have led to significant tiger declines. These areas often coincide with some of India’s economically poorer districts, representing a stark juxtaposition where conservation efforts face hurdles.
The study also emphasizes the need to strike a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. Mr. Jhala explained, “Tiger recovery is constrained at opposite ends of the socioeconomic spectrum, by intensive urbanization and poverty.” The researchers advocate for economic prosperity through sustainable use of ecosystems, aligning this approach with modern environmentalism and sustainability efforts.
One of the more alarming findings indicates the threat armed conflicts pose to tiger populations. The researchers found instances where global political instability led to drastic wildlife declines. For example, Manas National Park suffered severe loss of rhinos during conflicts, similar to what occurred during civil unrest in Nepal. Jhala pointed out how certain Indian districts affected by Maoist conflicts showed reduced tiger populations, reinforcing the need for political stability to aid wildlife recovery.
Reflecting on wider conservation efforts, the study concludes with the assertion: Without community support and participation, along with ensured community benefits from conservation, tiger recovery will be impossible.
Overall, the study published shows how India's unique approach to safeguarding its tigers not only aids the survival of these majestic creatures but fosters biodiversity and enhances community well-being. It provides invaluable lessons for tiger-range countries globally, shedding light on the significance of intertwined conservation and community progress.