[ Tigers in Rajasthan ] The Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) is a native tiger species of the Indian subcontinent. Tigers are at the top of the food chain, often referred to as “umbrella species” and play a vital role in regulating and perpetuating ecological processes.
Monitoring the status of tigers, along with associated biodiversity of the encompassing ecosystem, is important to assess our success at meeting the commitment of conserving our natural heritage.
Number of Tigers in Rajasthan
As per the Tigers in India 2018 Report, Rajasthan has witnessed an increase of tiger population by 115% in the last 12 years. As per the Report there are at present 69 tigers in the State, compared to 45 in 2014, 36 in 2010 and 32 in the 2006 estimation. Rajasthan stands at 9th position in India, in terms of Tiger Population.
In order to avoid human-wildlife conflict, relocating excess tigers and increasing the carrying capacity of reserves, the Rajasthan forest department is mulling to develop more habitats for big cats. The department is planning to introduce tigers in forest areas, such as Ramgarh Vishdhari, Shergarh, Kumbhalgarh, Rawli Toadgarh, Jhiri in Dholpur, Khetri Bansiyal in Jhunjhunu, Sultanpur in Bundi and Shahbad in Baran.
Tiger Reserves in Rajasthan
Rajasthan has 3 Tiger Reserves under Project Tiger. These are:
- Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR)
- Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (RTR)
- Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve (MHTR)
Out of the three, Ranthambore Tiger Reserve has the maximum big cats.
In July 2021, the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate change (MoEFCC) approved the proposal to convert the Ramgarh Vishdhari sanctuary into Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR). Read More