Kaziranga Tiger Density Ranks Third Globally in 2024: Assam’s Conservation Success

Kaziranga tiger density ranks third globally with 18.65 tigers/100 sq km in 2024. Learn how Assam achieved this through habitat expansion, tech-driven monitoring, and Project Tiger efforts.

Kaziranga Ranks Third Globally in Tiger Density

Background of the Report

On Global Tiger Day, July 29, 2025, Assam released the “Status of Tigers in Kaziranga, 2024” report, revealing that Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (KTR) now ranks third globally in tiger density, with 18.65 tigers per 100 sq. km

Significant Growth in Tiger Numbers

The tiger count rose from 104 in 2022 to 148 in 2024 — a substantial gain attributed partly to the first-ever sampling in the Biswanath Wildlife Division, which alone contributed 27 tigers

Survey Methodology and Technology Use

Between December 2023 and April 2024, a 103-day survey employed 13,157 trap‑nights resulting in 4,011 tiger images from 242 locations. Identification used stripe patterns, and advanced tools like camera traps, drones, infrared surveillance, and M-STrIPES were deployed

Habitat Expansion and Protection Measures

Officials highlighted that habitat expansion — including the addition of 200 sq km, with 12.82 sq km from Burhachapori‑Laokhowa sanctuaries — and stringent anti‑poaching efforts contributed significantly to the tiger resurgence

Ecosystem and Community Role

Forest officials emphasised that this growth reflects a healthier ecosystem, enabled by active community participation, and dedicated forest staff, including 113 female rangers (‘Van Durgas’) working round the clock to protect wildlife

Leadership and Regional Impact

Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, hailed the milestone, stating: “Assam is not just protecting tigers, it is reclaiming their kingdom,” underscoring Assam’s rise as a global leader in wildlife conservation

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B) Why this News Is Important

Relevance to Government Exam Aspirants

This story is directly relevant for government-exam aspirants preparing for posts in railways, banking, defence, civil services (PSCS to IAS), and teacher/police roles, since current affairs knowledge about environmental conservation, biodiversity policies, and National Tiger Conservation Authority initiatives often feature in general studies and essays.

Insights into National Wildlife Policy

The increase in tiger density illustrates the effectiveness of India’s Project Tiger, NTCA Phase IV protocols, and scientific monitoring techniques, alongside habitat management strategies. Understanding these frameworks is vital for questions in environment and ecology sections of exams.

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C) Historical Context

Kaziranga’s Conservation Journey

Established in 1905 as a reserve, declared a national park in 1974, and later designated a Tiger Reserve in 2006, Kaziranga has long been a stronghold of biodiversity. Its history includes interventions by Mary Curzon and subsequent efforts to curb rhino poaching and protect natural habitat

Precedent of High Tiger Density

Earlier surveys (e.g., in 2009–2010 by Aaranyak and Assam Forest Dept) had already positioned Kaziranga at the highest tiger densities globally, based on camera traps and prey abundance. At that time, densities reached 32.64 tigers per 100 sq km in limited zones Rising densities now reflect continued habitat protection and ecological balance.

Conservation Trends and National Impact

Between 2010 and 2022, India’s tiger population doubled—from ~1,700 to over 3,600—thanks to habitat restoration, anti‑poaching, and community outreach programs. Kaziranga’s success mirrors this national trend, highlighting India’s role in global wildlife stewardship

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D) Key Takeaways from “Kaziranga Ranks Third Globally in Tiger Density”

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is Kaziranga significant in India’s tiger conservation efforts?

Kaziranga is one of the oldest and most successful tiger reserves in India. It has demonstrated consistent growth in tiger population and density due to well-implemented conservation policies and community involvement.

2. What is the current tiger density in Kaziranga as of 2024?

The tiger density in Kaziranga is 18.65 tigers per 100 sq km, ranking it third globally.

3. Which survey methods were used to monitor the tiger population in Kaziranga?

The survey used camera trapping, drone monitoring, infrared surveillance, and M-STrIPES protocols for accurate population estimation.

4. What is M-STrIPES and why is it important?

M-STrIPES stands for Monitoring System for Tigers – Intensive Protection and Ecological Status. It is a GIS-based monitoring tool that helps forest staff track wildlife, poaching threats, and habitat conditions.

5. How does this information help in government exams?

It is important for topics under environment and ecology, current affairs, wildlife conservation policies, and schemes like Project Tiger — often asked in UPSC, SSC, State PSCs, and teacher eligibility exams.

6. Which division was surveyed for the first time and contributed significantly to tiger numbers?

The Biswanath Wildlife Division was surveyed for the first time and contributed 27 tigers.

7. What role do female forest guards play in Kaziranga?

113 women forest guards, referred to as “Van Durgas”, play a crucial role in protection patrols, monitoring wildlife, and deterring poaching.

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