Disparities in India’s Tiger Population Distribution

India is renowned for hosting approximately 75 per cent of the world’s tiger population. However, recent analyses reveal important disparities in their distribution across the country. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) conducted a census in 2022, denoting that nearly 40 per cent of tigers are confined to just 11 per cent of the reserves. This uneven distribution raises concerns about conservation efforts.

Tiger Population Overview

In 2022, India recorded at least 3,167 tigers, an increase from 2,967 in 2018. This figure represents a substantial portion of the global tiger population. The census covered 53 reserves across 18 states, with 1,977 tigers documented through sightings or camera traps. Six reserves are home to over 100 tigers, while 22 reserves report fewer than 10 or none at all.

Major Tiger Reserves

The top reserves include Corbett National Park, which hosts 231 tigers, followed by Nagarhole (127) and Bandipur (126). Kaziranga and Bandhavgarh each have 104 tigers, while Mudumalai has 103. These reserves are critical for maintaining a healthy tiger population.

New Reserves and Area Coverage

As of 2024, India has 56 tiger reserves covering 78,626 square kilometres, constituting over 2.3 per cent of the country’s total area. Recently established reserves include Veerangana Durgavati and Dholpur-Karauli in 2023, with Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla added in November 2024.

Threats to Tiger Populations

Despite conservation efforts, various threats jeopardise tiger habitats. Poaching, invasive species, mining, and habitat fragmentation are important concerns. A recent report indicated that invasive species affect habitats in 40 reserves, while staffing shortages in anti-poaching units leave wildlife vulnerable.

Invasive Species Impact

Invasive plant species such as Lantana camara and Prosopis juliflora have invaded ecosystems across 20 states. This invasion threatens the food chain by limiting the availability of native plants that herbivores depend on, ultimately impacting tiger survival.

Conservation Challenges

The NTCA’s reports highlight critical weaknesses in tiger reserve management. Many reserves lack sufficient anti-poaching staff, making monitoring illegal activities challenging. Additionally, habitat fragmentation and low prey availability further threaten tiger populations.

Recommendations for Improvement

To enhance tiger conservation, stricter regulations and stronger environmental protections are essential. Establishing wildlife corridors and restoring habitats can facilitate efficient wildlife movement and ensure the long-term survival of tigers.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the factors contributing to the decline in biodiversity in India.
2. Critically discuss the role of invasive species in the disruption of local ecosystems.
3. Analyse the impact of habitat fragmentation on wildlife conservation efforts.
4. Point out the measures taken by the Government of India to protect endangered species.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the factors contributing to the decline in biodiversity in India.

1. Habitat loss due to urbanization, agriculture, and infrastructure development reduces natural habitats.
2. Pollution from industrial waste, plastics, and chemicals degrades ecosystems and affects species survival.
3. Overexploitation of resources, including overfishing and illegal wildlife trade, leads to population declines.
4. Climate change alters habitats and species distributions, affecting biodiversity resilience.
5. Invasive species outcompete native flora and fauna, disrupting local ecosystems and food chains.

2. Critically discuss the role of invasive species in the disruption of local ecosystems.

1. Invasive species often outcompete native species for resources, leading to declines in native populations.
2. They can alter habitat structure, making it difficult for native plants and animals to thrive.
3. Invasive species disrupt food webs by affecting herbivore populations that depend on native vegetation.
4. They can introduce diseases to which native species have no immunity, further threatening biodiversity.
5. Management of invasive species often requires important resources and coordinated efforts, which can be challenging.

3. Analyse the impact of habitat fragmentation on wildlife conservation efforts.

1. Habitat fragmentation isolates wildlife populations, reducing genetic diversity and increasing inbreeding.
2. It disrupts migration patterns, making it difficult for species to find mates, food, and shelter.
3. Fragmented habitats can lead to edge effects, where conditions at the boundaries are less favorable for wildlife.
4. It increases human-wildlife conflict as animals venture into human-dominated landscapes for resources.
5. Conservation efforts must focus on creating wildlife corridors to connect fragmented habitats for effective management.

4. Point out the measures taken by the Government of India to protect endangered species.

1. Implementation of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which provides legal protection to endangered species.
2. Establishment of protected areas, including national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, to conserve habitats.
3. Initiatives like Project Tiger and Project Elephant aim to specifically protect key species and their habitats.
4. Public awareness campaigns and community involvement programs promote conservation efforts at the grassroots level.
5. Collaboration with international organizations for funding and expertise in species conservation strategies.