How many tiger deaths in India remain unresolved?

As of the latest reports, 88 tiger deaths recorded between 2020 and 2021 have not been resolved.

What concerns are raised by the unresolved tiger deaths?

Activists are concerned that the lack of investigation and closure for these deaths could lead to a cover-up of poaching activities and failures in wildlife monitoring.

What action has the NTCA taken regarding pending tiger death reports?

In January 2026, the NTCA directed states to submit all pending reports by January 27, 2026, to address the unresolved cases.

Home / Environment / India's Tigers: 88 Deaths Unexplained, Poaching Fears Rise

India's Tigers: 88 Deaths Unexplained, Poaching Fears Rise

27 Apr

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Summary

88 tiger deaths recorded between 2020-2021 lack cause and investigation.
Tiger parts recovered in some cases point to suspected poaching.
NTCA directive to states for pending reports by January 27, 2026.

India's Tigers: 88 Deaths Unexplained, Poaching Fears Rise

A troubling revelation indicates that 88 tiger deaths recorded in India between 2020 and 2021 are currently unresolved. These critical cases, spanning numerous major tiger reserves, lack confirmed causes and completed investigations, raising significant concerns about wildlife monitoring efficacy.

Many of these unexplained deaths are categorized as "US" (Under Scrutiny/Unnatural), with the cause of death column often left blank. In several instances, the recovery of tiger parts, designated as "seizures," strongly suggests poaching activities, yet legal closure remains elusive.