In India, tigers are not just continuing to exist; they are experiencing a revival. Despite a growing human population and increased pressure on their natural habitats, the wild tiger population is on the rise. What’s behind this positive trend? A new study suggests it’s due to a mix of ecological restoration, economic programs, and stable governance. Equally crucial is the ingrained respect for tigers, which has created a society where humans and these majestic predators can live side by side.
How can an endangered species like the tiger, which can pose a danger to humans, be protected? India has found an innovative approach by establishing both protected reserves and shared spaces where tigers and people coexist. This strategy has led to a remarkable 30% increase in the tiger population over the last 20 years.
A recent study published in Science reveals that India is now home to around 3,700 tigers, representing 75% of the world’s wild tiger population. This shows that even in a densely populated country, it’s feasible to safeguard large carnivores.
Alternative Strategies for Tiger Conservation
The strategy for conserving tigers in India merges two methods: certain areas are designated as strictly protected reserves, while others are multi-functional landscapes allowing for human and tiger interactions. This dual approach benefits not only the tigers but also local communities.
“By integrating these two approaches, reserves serve as a source of tigers for neighboring regions. Additionally, if coexistence fails, the reserves provide a backup, ensuring tigers remain safe from extinction,” explains Ninad Mungi, an assistant professor at Aarhus University and co-author of the study (see fact box).
Currently, 45% of the land occupied by tigers in India coexists with approximately 60 million residents.
Why Coexistence is Achievable
Researchers argue that the density of the human population isn’t the only factor affecting tiger viability; rather, it’s the lifestyles, economic conditions, and cultural attitudes of people that determine their willingness to coexist with large predators.
In areas with better economic conditions, such as those benefiting from ecotourism and government compensation, tolerance for tigers tends to be much higher.
For some farmers in India, losing cattle to a tiger isn’t always catastrophic. Those who house their livestock safely are usually not affected by tiger interactions. However, when cattle are allowed to roam freely in tiger territories and are then preyed upon, farmers can receive financial compensation from the government, turning a potential loss into a profitable gain.
The study indicates that tiger populations are growing most rapidly in regions that:
- Are near tiger reserves
- Have plentiful prey and suitable living conditions
- Feature a relatively low human population density
- Enjoy moderate economic stability
Poverty and Conflict as Obstacles to Tiger Conservation
Nonetheless, tiger populations are dwindling in impoverished rural regions where people depend on forests for essential resources like food and firewood.
“Previously, foraging was sustainable. However, with rising human numbers and shrinking tiger territories, conflicts are escalating,” says Ninad Mungi.
Additionally, tigers are scarce in areas grappling with armed conflicts.
“Our study finds that nearly half of the locations from which tigers have vanished are in districts influenced by the Naxal conflict,” Mungi notes. Conflicts often lead to poor governance, increasing the likelihood of poaching and habitat destruction, which represents significant hurdles for tiger conservation efforts.
Tigers and Human Attacks
While the notion of nearby tigers may induce fear, reported human attacks are infrequent. On average, about 100 people lose their lives to tiger attacks each year in India.
Should the worst occur, there are protective measures in place:
“In cases where a tiger kills a person, their family is provided financial support from the government,” explains Ninad Mungi.
When a tiger becomes a threat to humans, wildlife managers intervene by capturing and relocating it to a secure reserve or zoo.
Can India’s Example Inspire Others?
The model employed in India may offer valuable lessons for other regions around the world. In Europe, various countries are currently facing issues with wolves preying on livestock, and India’s experience could lead to innovative solutions that safeguard both wildlife and farmers’ interests.
According to Ninad Mungi, India and Europe share common challenges regarding large carnivore conservation.
“In both regions, protected areas tend to be small − typically 200-300 km² − and only limited portions are completely closed off to human activity. The ongoing discussion in Europe and North America has focused on whether efforts should be concentrated exclusively on wildlife-only protected zones. It’s crucial to maintain such untouched spaces where large predators are kept free from human interference. However, significant benefits may arise from extending our focus to foster coexistence beyond these protected regions. India’s approach of integrating shared landscapes offers a viable alternative,” he states.
“Cultural obstacles exist, but cultures can evolve over time. The experience in India illustrates that large predators can thrive in today’s world, provided we are willing to think outside the box and establish a balance between conservation and coexistence.”
