India now boasts the world’s largest tiger population, with over 3,600 tigers—75% of the global total—thriving despite the country’s dense human population. A new study highlights India’s conservation efforts, which have doubled tiger numbers in just over a decade by combating poaching, securing habitats, and fostering coexistence with local communities. Tigers now occupy 138,200 sq km, often sharing space with 60 million people in farming villages near reserves. This success contrasts with regions where poaching and economic struggles have led to local extinctions.
The study also underscores the delicate balance between economic growth and conservation. While tourism and government support have benefited tiger-rich states, land-use changes from urbanization pose new threats. Researchers suggest a mix of land-sharing and land-sparing strategies to maintain tiger populations while minimizing human-wildlife conflicts. With protected areas expanding and conservation policies evolving, India’s approach offers valuable lessons for global wildlife recovery, proving that large carnivores can thrive even in heavily populated landscapes.