India reports significant recovery in tiger and wildlife populations

India has seen a significant recovery in its wildlife populations, most notably in its tiger numbers, which are now estimated at approximately 3,700. This growth contrasts with declines seen in other parts of Asia, such as Malaysia. The success is largely attributed to Project Tiger, an initiative launched in 1973 that established protected habitats, strengthened anti-poaching measures, and improved forest management.

India currently holds more than 70 per cent of the world’s wild tiger population. The country’s conservation success has even allowed for the export of tigers to Cambodia, where the species had previously gone extinct. Beyond tigers, India has implemented dedicated programs for Asiatic lions, greater one-horned rhinoceroses, Asian elephants, snow leopards, and dolphins.

However, the increase in wildlife populations has led to rising human-wildlife conflicts. As animal populations grow and habitats overlap with human settlements, there have been recorded incidents involving tiger, leopard, and elephant attacks in various regions.