International Tiger Day 2025: How India Became the Global Leader in Tiger Conservation

By Sushant Agarwal

Published on | Jul 29, 2025

What Is International Tiger Day?

Observed on July 29, the day was launched in 2010 at the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit to raise global awareness on saving wild tigers.

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The Tx2 Goal: A Global Tiger Mission

13 nations, including India, had pledged to double wild tiger populations by 2022. India has successfully met this target ahead of others.

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India Hosts 75% of World’s Wild Tigers

With 3,600+ tigers, India leads global conservation despite housing just 18% of tiger habitat and the highest human density.

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What Is Project Tiger?

Launched in 1973, this landmark initiative expanded from 9 to 50+ reserves, securing tiger habitats and reshaping conservation policy.

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How India Doubled Its Tiger Numbers

From 1,411 tigers in 2006 to 3,682 in 2022—India’s success shows the power of long-term planning, monitoring, and community support.

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Madhya Pradesh: The Tiger Capital of India

With 785 tigers, MP leads in numbers and management. Reserves like Kanha, Bandhavgarh & Pench are globally recognized.

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Why Tigers Are Vital for Ecosystems

Tigers keep herbivore numbers in check, preserving forests, enabling biodiversity, and helping forests act as climate stabilizers.

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Tiger Habitats Help Humans Too

Forests where tigers live protect water sources, regulate rivers, reduce flood risks, store carbon, and support food security.

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Tigers in Indian Culture and Identity

The Royal Bengal Tiger is India’s national animal—symbolizing strength, balance, and pride in Indian folklore and forest traditions.

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What Lies Ahead for India’s Tigers?

India’s challenge is to balance development with conservation—expanding green corridors, managing conflict, and protecting future habitats.

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