On the occasion of Global Tiger Day, July 29, it was revealed that Chhattisgarh’s Achanakmar Reserve witnessed a growth in the number of tigers. In 2017, the reserve had five tigers, which is now doubled, as per the 2024 report shared by World Wildlife Fund India and the state forest department. Keep reading to know the details.
Tiger Count Doubles In Chhattisgarh’s Achanakmar Reserve
In the last seven years (between 2017 and 2024), Chhattisgarh’s Achanakmar Reserve has seen a rise in the number of tigers. In 2017, the reserve had a total of five tigers—four male and one female. As of 2024, the number has risen to ten, comprising three males and seven females.
According to Hindustan Times, this growth in the tiger population is a big achievement. The reserve witnessed multiple breeding-age tigers for the first time in 15 years, with a good sex ratio. Looking at the current report, experts have mentioned that there are possibilities of a larger population in the coming years.
The report mentions that the number of tigers and their prey in Chhattisgarh’s Achanakmar Reserve were counted by camera traps between 2017 and 2024, and a line transect between 2019 and 2024.
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Reason For Growth In The Tiger Population
The report has stated that wild ungulates are one of the biggest reasons behind the rise in the number of tigers. Between 2017 and 2024, the wild ungulate population has shown higher population density, especially in areas like Achanakmar and Chhaparwa. However, the Lamni and Surahihave areas recorded fewer prey animals and tigers, indicating the need for focused conservation efforts.
World Wildlife Fund India advised using radio collars on breeding females and young tigers. This will help them understand their movements, hunting, and habits.
On Global Tiger Day, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav also launched a national tree plantation campaign. Under this campaign, they plan to plant 1 lakh native tree saplings across 58 reserves across the country. Each reserve will have 2,000 native tree saplings. India declared Madhav Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh as its 58th reserve in 2025. This reserve also housed animals like leopards, deer, wolves, birds, and more.
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