India Launches Ambitious Tiger Census to Track Big Cats

Beginning January 5, 2026, India embarks on the initial phase of the All India Tiger Estimation (AITE) 2026, a significant undertaking in wildlife monitoring. This nationwide survey, conducted every four years, will unfold in seven-day cycles until the end of February across diverse forest divisions. The National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Wildlife Institute of India spearhead this crucial exercise.

The AITE 2026 goes beyond just counting tigers. It involves assessing co-predators such as leopards and wild dogs, and estimating the populations of mega herbivores like gaur and various deer species. Detailed habitat assessments, including sign surveys, camera trapping, and genetic sampling, are integral components of this comprehensive study.