A tiger cub rescued three years ago has been moved to Dnyanganga Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra’s Buldhana district for rewilding. The animal, identified as PKT7CP1, was rescued along with its sister from Yavatmal after they lost their mother at around six months of age. Both cubs were later raised at Pench Tiger Reserve in Nagpur and have now been assessed as ready for release into the wild.
Rescue and Rehabilitation
The two cubs were orphaned at a very young age and required intensive care after rescue. They were shifted to Pench Tiger Reserve, where they were hand-reared and monitored. Their rehabilitation focused on helping them develop natural survival behaviour.
Rewilding Process
Officials said the tiger has now been placed in a 5-hectare enclosure at Dnyanganga Wildlife Sanctuary. The enclosure is intended to help the animal adapt gradually to a natural habitat. The sister tiger is scheduled for release in Painganga Wildlife Sanctuary in Yavatmal. Such phased release is used to reduce dependence on human care and improve survival chances in the wild.
Significance for Tiger Conservation
Rewilding orphaned big cats is an important part of wildlife conservation in India. It helps restore animals to forest ecosystems after rescue and treatment. The process also supports genetic and population management in tiger landscapes. Maharashtra is one of the key states under India’s tiger conservation programme, with protected areas such as Pench, Painganga and Dnyanganga playing important roles.
Protected Areas Involved
Dnyanganga Wildlife Sanctuary lies in Buldhana district and provides a controlled habitat for acclimatisation. Pench Tiger Reserve in Nagpur is known for tiger conservation and rehabilitation efforts. Painganga Wildlife Sanctuary in Yavatmal is another important forest area for wildlife protection and release operations.
Last Modified: April 25, 2026