International Tiger Day holds special significance for Madhya Pradesh. Due to extensive conservation efforts, the state now boasts the highest number of tigers in the world—a matter of pride not just for Madhya Pradesh but for India as a whole. According to the 2022 tiger census, India had an estimated 3,682 tigers, with Madhya Pradesh alone accounting for 785—the highest in the country.
Under the sensitive and proactive leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, continuous efforts are being made to increase the tiger population. Thanks to effective management in tiger habitats, their numbers have steadily increased. The state’s tiger corridors are well-connected to both northern and southern Indian tiger reserves. National parks have played a crucial role in tiger conservation through effective management and strategic relocation of villages from forest areas, freeing vast regions from biological pressure. Villages from core areas of Kanha, Pench, and Kuno have been completely relocated. Over 90% of Satpura Tiger Reserve’s core area has also been cleared of human habitation. Post-relocation, local grass species have been restored with expert assistance to ensure year-round fodder for herbivores. With active habitat development, herbivores like spotted deer (chital)—primary prey for tigers—have increased and spread more evenly across the reserves.