Madhav National Park - India’s 58th Tiger Reserve

Madhav National Park: India’s 58th Tiger Reserve - A New Chapter for India’s Tigers Population Increase

On March 10, 2025, Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh was officially declared India’s 58th tiger reserve, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s tigers conservation journey. This Park not only strengthens Madhya Pradesh’s reputation as the Tiger State of India but also emphasizes India’s global leadership in protecting these iconic big cats, which now number 3,68 over 70% of the world’s wild tiger population.

A Glimpse into History:

Once a royal hunting ground for Mughal emperors and the Scindia dynasty of Gwalior, Madhav National Park was established in 1956 under the Madhya Pradesh National Parks Act 714. Its transformation into a tiger reserve reflects a shift from exploitation to preservation.

The park spans 355 sq km of core area and a 4–6 sq km buffer zone, featuring diverse ecosystems like forests, grasslands, and lakes that support rich biodiversity.

Tiger Reintroduction:

Until 2023, Madhav National Park had no resident tigers. Three tigers (a male and two females) were relocated here under the Tiger Reintroduction Project, leading to a population of seven by 2025, including cubs born in the reserve.

Ecological Significance:

Madhav National Park serves as a core route for animal movement, linking Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (Rajasthan) to Kuno National Park (MP), which hosts reintroduced cheetahs. This connectivity aids genetic diversity and balances predator-prey dynamics.

Conservation Framework: Project Tiger and Beyond:

Project Tiger’s Legacy:

Launched in 1973 with nine reserves, Project Tiger evolved into the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) in 2006. It introduced core-buffer zoning, habitat management, and anti-poaching measures, enabling India’s tiger population to rebound from 1,863 in the 1970s to over 3,600 today.

Funding and Management:

Tiger reserves follow a 60:40 funding model (Central:State), with Northeastern and Himalayan states receiving 90% central support. Funds are used for habitat restoration, village relocation, and conflict mitigation.

Madhya Pradesh‘s leadership:

With nine tiger reserves, including Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Panna, Madhya Pradesh leads India with 785 tigers. The state’s success is attributed to strict protection, community engagement, and ecotourism.

Present Challenges and Vision for the Future:

Human-Wildlife Conflict:

Over 60 million people live near tiger habitats, increasing encounters. Reserves in Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh struggle with low tiger densities due to poaching and habitat loss.

Balancing Predators:

Kuno National Park’s cheetahs and proposed Asiatic lion relocation from Gujarat could strain prey resources. Conservationists advocate integrated management to avoid competition.

Global Collaboration:

India’s International Big Cats Alliance (2023) promotes transboundary conservation, aligning with global goals to protect tigers, lions, cheetahs, and other species.

Conservation with a Future:

Biodiversity Hotspot: Home to leopards, sloth bears, and over 200 bird species, Madhav Park's ecosystems benefit from tiger-centric conservation.

Ecotourism Potential: The reserve’s landscapes and historical sites, like the Mughal-era hunting lodges, attract wildlife enthusiasts, boosting local economies.

Climate Resilience: Protecting corridors like Madhav ensures ecosystems adapt to climate change, safeguarding water sources and carbon sinks.

Madhav Tiger Reserve embodies India’s commitment to balancing ecological preservation with sustainable development. It’s a symbol. Of resilience. Of respect for the wild.