Madhya Pradesh, India’s premier tiger state, recorded 55 tiger deaths last year, with 38 attributed to natural causes. Despite these losses, the state’s tiger population continues to thrive, underscoring the success of its conservation efforts.
Data reveals a remarkable surge in tiger numbers from 2018 to 2022. Nationally, the population grew by 24.10 percent, but Madhya Pradesh outpaced this with a 49.24 percent increase. The state’s annual growth rate of 12.31 percent is more than double the national average of 6.02 percent. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of targeted protection strategies.
Experts emphasize that conservation isn’t just about boosting numbers; analyzing mortality rates is equally crucial. India’s tiger death rate averaged below 5 percent from 2019 to 2025, while Madhya Pradesh’s hovered between 6 and 7 percent. Far from indicating failure, this reflects superior monitoring and detection systems in the state.
Of the 55 deaths in 2025, 69 percent or 38 tigers succumbed to natural reasons, including territorial fights, illnesses, old age, accidents, and vehicle collisions. Poaching claimed 11 tigers (20 percent), mostly linked to electrocution traps set to protect crops and livestock, not for organ trade. Six tigers (11 percent) were killed for body parts, leading to swift arrests and seizures by forest officials.
The 2022 national tiger census counted 3,682 tigers across India, with Madhya Pradesh hosting 785—the highest anywhere. Boasting 11 national parks, 26 wildlife sanctuaries, and 9 tiger reserves, the state employs advanced surveillance, habitat management, and conflict mitigation measures. These efforts ensure a robust future for its iconic big cats.