International Tiger Day 2026: Uttar Pradesh Tiger Population Crosses 205
Uttar Pradesh has emerged as one of India's key tiger habitats, with the state's tiger population crossing 205, reflecting years of sustained conservation efforts. On the occasion of International Tiger Day, various awareness and conservation programmes are being organised across the state, especially in its tiger reserves.
The theme for International Tiger Day 2026 is "Securing the Future of Tigers with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities at the Heart," highlighting the vital role local communities play in wildlife conservation.
Tiger Population Continues to Rise
According to the 2022 All India Tiger Estimation, Uttar Pradesh is home to 205 tigers, marking a significant increase from 173 tigers in 2018.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Anuradha Vemuri said the state now has four tiger reserves—Pilibhit, Dudhwa, Amangarh, and Ranipur.
She noted that Ranipur, declared as the country's 53rd Tiger Reserve, reflects Uttar Pradesh's growing commitment to biodiversity conservation and wildlife protection. India now has a total of 58 tiger reserves.
Steady Growth Over the Years
The state's tiger population has steadily increased over the past two decades:
- 2006: 109 tigers
- 2010: 118 tigers
- 2014: 117 tigers
- 2018: 173 tigers
- 2022: 205 tigers
The consistent rise is being attributed to improved habitat protection, conservation measures, and greater community participation. ALSO READ: Assam’s Kaziranga national park records world’s third highest tiger density
'Bagh Mitra' Initiative Strengthens Conservation
A major contributor to this success has been the 'Bagh Mitra' programme, launched in Pilibhit in 2019 under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
To further strengthen the initiative, the state launched the Bagh Mitra App in October 2023, enabling local residents to report wildlife sightings more efficiently. The initiative also received appreciation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat'.
Villagers Play a Key Role
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve Divisional Forest Officer Manish Singh said that 120 villagers, including 118 women, living within five kilometres of the forest have been enrolled as Bagh Mitras.
These volunteers are connected through a WhatsApp group and have been trained to immediately report sightings of tigers or other wild animals that stray outside forest areas.
Using the Bagh Mitra App, villagers upload photographs and location details, allowing forest officials to quickly identify the animal and deploy response teams. The early-warning system has significantly helped reduce human-wildlife conflict while ensuring the safety of both residents and animals.
With growing tiger numbers, expanding conservation initiatives, and active community participation, Uttar Pradesh continues to strengthen its position as an important contributor to India's wildlife conservation efforts.
