Full Breakdown
Nepal Launches Nationwide Tiger Census to Aid Conservation Efforts
12/16/2025, 9:42:49 PM
Overview of the Tiger Census Initiative
On December 16, 2023, Nepal officially commenced its nationwide tiger census, a critical conservation initiative aimed at assessing and enhancing the recovery of the tiger population in the country. This census, conducted every four years, is being led by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) under the Ministry of Forests and Environment, with support from various organizations including the National Trust for Nature Conservation, World Wide Fund for Nature Nepal, and the Geological Society of Nepal. The census will cover four national parks: Chitwan, Banke, Bardiya, and Shuklaphanta, spanning over 8,000 square kilometers of protected areas.
Methodology and Resources
The census employs advanced technology, utilizing approximately 1,100 motion-sensitive camera traps to capture images of tigers in their natural habitats. The DNPWC has mobilized over 250 conservation staff, including personnel from the Nepali Army and community forest user committees, to assist in the operation. The estimated budget for the census is around 30 million Nepalese rupees, which will cover logistical needs such as camera trap management and personnel mobilization. Results from this extensive survey are anticipated by July 2026.
Historical Context and Population Trends
Nepal has been systematically counting its tiger population since 2009, with previous censuses conducted in 2013, 2018, and 2022. The tiger population has shown significant recovery, increasing from just 98 tigers in 1995 to 355 in 2022. This growth reflects successful conservation efforts in the country, which have also seen the population of one-horned rhinoceroses rise from around 100 in the 1960s to 752 in 2021.
Addressing Human-Tiger Conflict
DNPWC Director General Buddi Sagar Paudel emphasized the importance of addressing human-tiger conflicts as part of the conservation strategy. He suggested that providing alternative livelihood options for communities living near forest areas is essential to reduce reliance on forest resources and foster positive attitudes towards wildlife. Currently, there are 18 problematic tigers being kept in captivity due to conflicts with humans, highlighting the ongoing challenges in balancing conservation with community safety.
Global Context
As of 2025, global tiger populations have risen to 5,357, with India leading at 3,167 tigers, followed by Russia (750) and Indonesia (400). Nepal's population of 355 places it fourth in the global rankings, underscoring the significance of its conservation efforts.
Official Statements & Responses
Buddi Sagar Paudel stated, “The census will provide reliable data on the current tiger population and help guide future conservation efforts.” He also noted the necessity of changing local attitudes towards wildlife to mitigate conflicts.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have adopted capture and recapture methodology with camera traps,” — Haribhadra Acharya, Coordinator of the National Tiger Census Technical Committee.
- “The survey is aimed at tracking the status of the tiger – their habitat and status of prey availability, and conflict with humans,” — Abinash Thapa Magar, Chitwan National Park Authority.
This nationwide tiger census represents a significant step in Nepal's ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation and the preservation of its natural heritage.
