41 Tigers Died in Maharashtra in 2025; Forest Minister Details Anti-Poaching Measures

The Maharashtra government on Friday informed the State Legislative Council that 41 of the 166 tiger deaths reported across India in 2025 occurred in the state. The disclosure came in response to questions raised by independent MLC Satyajeet Tambe and others regarding tiger mortality and conservation efforts in Maharashtra.

State Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, in a written reply, said that preliminary investigations into recent deaths indicate natural causes or intra-species conflicts. For instance, a tiger cub found dead on January 7, 2026, is believed to have died from a fight with another tiger, while the carcass of another cub appears to have succumbed to natural causes.

The minister highlighted several field-level measures aimed at protecting tigers and other wildlife. Regular patrolling is conducted in hypersensitive areas by the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF), supported by dog squads and mobile tracking through the M-Stripes system. District Level Tiger Committee meetings are held to strategize the protection of tigers, leopards, and other wildlife, while informers and secret service funds help curb poaching activities.

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Infrastructure enhancements include protection huts, observation towers, and checkposts in critical areas. A Wildlife Crime Cell at the Nagpur Principal Chief Conservator of Forests monitors wildlife-related crimes, while a Cyber Cell at the Melghat Tiger Project tracks individuals involved in poaching. Regular inspections of vehicles and nomadic settlements, as well as fortnightly tracking programmes, are also in place to safeguard tiger populations.

Technological measures further strengthen conservation efforts. Camera traps have been installed at tiger corridors, water bodies, and other sensitive locations, while water sources are regularly checked to prevent poisoning. Metal detectors are used to detect iron traps laid by hunters, and continuous surveillance ensures timely intervention against potential threats.

These measures reflect Maharashtra’s ongoing commitment to tiger conservation, balancing wildlife protection with anti-poaching initiatives and technological monitoring to reduce mortality and maintain ecological stability in tiger habitats.

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