Wild tigers, large predators, are endangered. Their populations have significantly declined over the past century. These animals are integral to their ecosystems, and their conservation supports broader environmental health.
India’s Leading Role
India holds the largest wild tiger population globally. Estimates from 2022 indicate approximately 3,682 tigers, representing nearly 75% of the world’s wild tiger population. This substantial number results from sustained conservation efforts.
A cornerstone of India’s conservation success is Project Tiger, launched in 1973. This initiative established dedicated tiger reserves, growing from nine in 1973 to over 50 by 2025, covering more than 75,000 square kilometers. These protected areas, coupled with strong political commitment and anti-poaching measures, have allowed tiger populations to rebound significantly from a low of 1,411 in 2006.
The Global Tiger Picture
The global wild tiger population, which hit a low of about 3,200 individuals in 2010, has seen a notable increase, reaching an estimated 5,574 by 2023. This recovery stems from a collective commitment made by 13 tiger range countries at the 2010 St. Petersburg Tiger Summit. The ambitious TX2 goal aimed to double the number of wild tigers by 2022.
Beyond India, other tiger range countries have also made progress. Russia, home to the Amur tiger, has an estimated population of around 750 individuals as of 2025. Nepal has seen a remarkable increase, with its tiger population reaching 355 in 2022, nearly tripling its 2010 numbers. Bhutan’s tiger population has grown to an estimated 131 individuals by 2022, a 27% increase since 2015. Conservation strategies across these nations involve habitat protection, stringent anti-poaching laws, and efforts to engage local communities.
Why Tiger Conservation Matters
Tigers are considered an “umbrella species,” meaning their conservation indirectly benefits many other species within their habitat. Protecting tigers requires safeguarding large, intact forest ecosystems, which provides refuge for countless other plants and animals. These apex predators help maintain ecosystem balance by regulating herbivore populations, preventing overgrazing, and preserving vegetation.
Healthy tiger habitats offer broader environmental benefits. Many rivers originate from tiger reserves, providing water to millions. These forests contribute to carbon sequestration, regulate local climates, and mitigate the impacts of natural disasters like floods. Efforts to conserve tigers extend beyond a single species, contributing to biodiversity and supporting ecosystem health.