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The sixth cycle of the All-India Tiger Estimation (AITE) was launched in January 2026 to assess India's tiger population and the health of their habitats. The nationwide exercise combines field surveys, camera trapping, and genetic analysis to generate a comprehensive estimate of tiger numbers and monitor conservation outcomes.

What is the All-India Tiger Estimation?

The All-India Tiger Estimation (AITE) is India's largest scientific wildlife census conducted for the Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris). The previous assessment, carried out in 2022, estimated India's wild tiger population at 3,682, accounting for nearly 75% of the global wild tiger population, reinforcing the country's leading role in tiger conservation.

Methodology of the 2026 Tiger Census

The 2026 estimation is being conducted in three phases:

• Phase I (January–February 2026): Collection of tiger signs such as pugmarks, scat, and scratches, along with habitat and prey assessments.

• Phase II: Deployment of camera traps across tiger habitats for 40–60 days to photograph and identify individual tigers.

• Phase III: Collection and analysis of genetic samples, including DNA from scat and hair, to improve the accuracy of population estimates.

The exercise is being carried out by forest department personnel, wildlife experts, and trained volunteers across India's tiger landscapes. The final report is expected to be released in 2027.

State-Wise Progress of the Survey

Several states have already completed or are actively conducting different phases of the tiger estimation:

• Tamil Nadu launched Phase I on 5 January 2026 across its five tiger reserves.

• Karnataka also began Phase I on 5 January 2026 in 54 forest divisions, deploying around 400 field staff and 550 camera traps, including in Bandipur Tiger Reserve.

• Telangana completed its initial survey between 19 and 25 January 2026, recording 994 pieces of evidence related to tigers and other carnivores.

Amrabad Tiger Reserve Records Increase in Tiger Numbers

Preliminary findings released on 27 June 2026 from Amrabad Tiger Reserve in Telangana indicate an increase in the tiger population. The survey identified 42 individual tigers, up from 36 in the previous assessment.

The study covered an area of 2,611 square kilometres between November 2025 and June 2026. Researchers installed 2,240 camera traps, which recorded 18 adult females, 14 adult males, two sub-adults, and eight cubs.

In addition to tigers, the camera traps also captured images of the Indian Grey Wolf, a species protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Species listed under Schedule I receive the highest level of legal protection under the Act.

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