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Madhya Pradesh Tiger Deaths Surge Alarming
16 Dec
Summary
- 54 tigers have died in Madhya Pradesh in 2025, the highest since 1973.
- Nearly 57% of tiger deaths are classified as unnatural, including poaching and electrocution.
- Wildlife trafficking kingpin Yangchen Lakhungpa was arrested in December 2025.
Madhya Pradesh, renowned as India's "Tiger State," is grappling with a disturbing surge in tiger fatalities. The year 2025 has witnessed an unprecedented 54 tiger deaths, the highest recorded since Project Tiger's inception in 1973. This alarming figure represents a stark contrast to claims of conservation success, revealing a darker narrative of mystery and suspicious circumstances surrounding these losses.
Analysis of the deaths indicates that nearly 57% are classified as "unnatural," encompassing poaching, electrocution, and other unexplained causes. A recent incident involving a tiger carcass found near a power line in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve exemplifies the gravity of the situation, with electrocution being a strong possibility. Despite official assurances and investigations, conservationists express grave concerns about the escalating crisis.
Compounding these concerns is the recent arrest of alleged international wildlife trafficking kingpin Yangchen Lakhungpa in December 2025. This event underscores the persistent threat of poaching within protected areas, with evidence suggesting extensive networks spanning multiple countries. The rising death toll, coupled with alleged negligence in handling past cases, calls for urgent and effective conservation measures.
