All-India Tiger Estimation-2026 Begins

Summary of All-India Tiger Estimation-2026 (AITE-26)

Overview:

• The All-India Tiger Estimation-2026 (AITE-26) field exercise commenced in Karnataka as part of a national tiger census.
• This is the sixth cycle of tiger estimation in India; previous cycles were conducted in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022.

Objectives:

• Assess the status of India’s tiger population, which is crucial for wildlife conservation.

Key Statistics:

• As of the last estimation in 2022, India holds 3,682 tigers, approximately 70% of the world’s wild tiger population.
• Karnataka is home to 563 tigers, ranking second only to Madhya Pradesh.

Methodology:

1. Phase-I of the exercise:

   • Conducted in 114 beats in Bandipur Tiger Reserve.
   • Involves two surveys:
     • Carnivore Sign Survey: For collecting scat samples of carnivores.
     • Line Transect Survey: For estimating herbivore populations via direct sightings.

2. Field Staff and Equipment:

   • 400 field staff engaged, with a total of 9,276 forest staff deployed for the exercise.
   • Utilization of 550 camera traps, 70 range finders, and 50 compasses for data collection.
   • Sample collection includes at least five herbivore dung and pellets for DNA analysis.

3. Duration:

   • Carnivore Sign Survey from January 5–7 and January 15–17.
   • Line Transect Survey from January 9 to February 5.

4. Technology:

   • Utilizes the M-STrIPES ecological mobile application for data recording.
   • Future phases will leverage remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques and camera trap surveys.

Significance:

• Implemented as part of Project Tiger, aligned with conservation efforts under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, and recognizes the ecological and economic importance of tigers, which are essential to maintaining biodiversity.

Government Schemes and Policies:

• The tiger estimation exercise falls under various government conservation schemes aimed at protecting and increasing wildlife, particularly the Project Tiger initiative established under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Environmental Context:

• Tigers are a key indicator species for ecosystem health, with extensive biodiversity implications if their populations are well managed.
• The presence of tigers aids in maintaining the ecological balance within their habitat.

Future Directions:

• Follow-up phases will enhance the robustness of the estimation process using advanced technological frameworks while fostering data-driven conservation strategies.

This exercise plays a crucial role in allowing for adaptive management and policy development regarding tiger conservation and broader wildlife protection in India.