International Tiger Day 2023: Nepal’s tiger population sees remarkable growth

July 29, Kathmandu: International Tiger Day also known as World Tiger Day is being celebrated on Saturday across the world including Nepal marking a momentous achievement in both global and national tiger conservation efforts as the tiger population nearly triples in the country.

The national theme for World Tiger Day 2023 is ‘Human-Tiger Coexistence’, as Nepal faces formidable challenges in managing the surge in tiger numbers and addressing the escalating human-tiger conflicts.

The Ministry of Forest and Environment in Nepal is hosting a special event at Central Zoo in Jawlakhel, Lalitpur.

The recently concluded 2022 national tiger census reveals a remarkable comeback for tigers in Nepal, with the population surging from 121 in 2009 to an impressive 355. The Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park have emerged as tiger strongholds, boasting 128 and 125 tigers, respectively. Other national parks such as Banke, Parsa, and Shuklaphanta also contribute to this astounding growth.

World Tiger Day, observed on the last Saturday of July, celebrates the commitment forged during the 2010 International Tiger Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia, to safeguard these majestic creatures. The global tiger population had alarmingly dwindled to 3,200 in 2010, but dedicated conservation initiatives by 13 countries, including Nepal, have led to a revival. By 2022, the global count has risen to an encouraging 4,500.

As Nepal celebrates this conservation success, the increasing tiger population has given rise to heightened human-tiger conflicts. Reports of tiger attacks on people in community forests during routine activities like resource gathering and cattle grazing have surged. Over the past five years, the country has recorded 58 deaths from such tiger attacks, prompting compensations exceeding Rs. 600 million for damages caused by wild animals.

Addressing this pressing issue, Dr Ghanshyam Gurung, the national representative of World Wildlife Fund Nepal, emphasizes sustainable solutions for harmonious coexistence. He advocates providing alternative livelihood options to communities residing near tiger habitats, discouraging their entry into these areas. Effective habitat management and support for locals in finding alternative income sources are pivotal steps toward achieving this balance.

Recognized globally for its cultural and ecological significance, the tiger stands as a symbol of natural heritage. As the apex predator in the food chain, it plays a vital role in maintaining ecological equilibrium by regulating other animal populations.

On this World Tiger Day, Nepal and the global community unite to reaffirm their commitment to tiger conservation, acknowledging the crucial role these magnificent creatures play in preserving biodiversity. Nevertheless, the country remains vigilant in addressing the challenges posed by the rising tiger population and ensuring the safety of both humans and these awe-inspiring beasts.