India’s Tiger Conservation Journey: From 1,827 to 3,682 in 50 Years

The conservation of tigers in India has seen a remarkable transformation over the past five decades, with the tiger population rising from just 1,827 in 1972 to an estimated 3,682 in 2022. This increase is largely due to the implementation of Project Tiger, a government initiative launched in 1973 aimed at preserving the Bengal tiger and its natural habitats.

The story of India’s tigers dates back to the early 20th century, when conservative estimates placed the tiger population at around 40,000. Some estimates even suggested that the number could have been as high as 100,000 in 1900. However, by 1972, the population had plummeted to alarming levels, prompting urgent action. In response to this drastic decline, the Indian government established Project Tiger to safeguard the species and ensure ecological balance.

Implementing Project Tiger

Project Tiger employs a multi-faceted approach to conservation. Central to this initiative is the establishment of tiger reserves, which are managed under a core-buffer strategy. Core areas receive legal protection as national parks or sanctuaries, while buffer zones allow for sustainable human activities, balancing conservation efforts with local needs. This strategy has effectively created secure habitats for tigers, reducing human-wildlife conflict.

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), established under the Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972, oversees the regulatory framework and funding for Project Tiger. Initially, the project included nine tiger reserves, such as the famous Jim Corbett National Park, which was India’s first national park established in 1936. Today, the number of reserves has expanded to over 50, showcasing a significant commitment to tiger conservation.

As of 2025, the total area designated as tiger reserves has exceeded 75,000 square kilometers, a landmass comparable to the state of Jharkhand. This area constitutes approximately 2.2% of India’s total land area, underscoring the government’s dedication to preserving these majestic animals.

Current Status and Future Prospects

According to the latest estimates, the tiger population in India ranges from a minimum of 3,167 to a maximum of 3,925, with an average of 3,682. This represents a commendable annual growth rate of 6.1%. However, this growth has not been linear, with fluctuations in population numbers over the years. For example, the 2006 estimate dropped to 1,411, prompting significant changes to conservation strategies that have since yielded positive results.

Remarkably, India now hosts approximately 75% of the global tiger population, a fact that highlights its critical role in tiger conservation worldwide. This achievement reflects the impact of both governmental and non-governmental organizations working collaboratively towards a common goal.

The story of one particular tigress, Machhli, exemplifies the intersection of wildlife and public engagement. Known as the “Queen Mother of Tigers,” Machhli was born in 1997 in Ranthambore National Park. She became a symbol of tiger conservation and the face of Project Tiger, contributing significantly to the park’s tiger population by raising 11 cubs during her lifetime. Her fame, bolstered by her striking appearance and ferocity, attracted wildlife photographers and tourists, boosting conservation awareness and tourism.

The legacy of Project Tiger is also closely linked to the work of **Kailash Sankhala**, often referred to as the “Tiger Man of India.” Born in 1925, Sankhala played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the declining tiger population at a time when hunting was still prevalent. His efforts helped establish Project Tiger, and he served as its first director, overseeing the creation of nine tiger reserves and implementing conservation strategies that continue to shape current practices.

Sankhala’s influence extended beyond his tenure as director, as he founded the Tiger Trust in 1989, a non-governmental organization focused on community involvement in tiger conservation. His contributions earned him the Padma Shri award in 1992, recognizing his lifelong commitment to protecting India’s tigers.

As Project Tiger continues to evolve, the collaboration between government, conservationists, and local communities remains vital. The journey from 1,827 tigers in 1972 to 3,682 in 2022 demonstrates that concerted efforts can lead to positive outcomes in wildlife conservation, inspiring hope for the future of India’s tigers.