Tiger Attacks Spike as Habitat Shrinks in Karnataka

As of November 2nd, 2025, the Karnataka government is grappling with a concerning rise in tiger attacks and human-wildlife conflicts in the state. According to Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre, the tiger population in Bandipur National Park has increased from just 12 in 1972 to 153 currently, while the available forest space has declined, leading to more frequent encounters between humans and tigers.

In the past four years, the situation has escalated, with 65 people killed by wild animals in 2023-24 alone, including 48 by elephants, 5 by tigers, and 12 by other species. This follows 57 deaths in 2022-23 and 41 in 2021-22. Farmers in the affected regions have voiced their concerns, seeking higher compensation for crop loss due to wildlife depredation.

To address the crisis, the Karnataka government has constituted a two-member expert committee to study the reasons behind the animals' incursions into human settlements and explore potential solutions. The minister has also promised to take strict action against any illegal activities, such as unauthorized homestays or stone quarrying, within the state's forest areas. Additionally, an integrated command center will be established to leverage modern technologies and communication systems to provide timely alerts to the public about wildlife presence.