Sagar Watch News, January 20, 2026/ Amid a steady rise in tiger numbers, Madhya Pradesh’s largest protected forest area—the Nauradehi Tiger Reserve—has welcomed a new male tiger, marking an important step in strengthening the reserve’s long-term conservation strategy.
The three-year-old tiger, relocated from Kanha Tiger Reserve, was released late Sunday night into the Mohli Range under the supervision of the reserve management.
Key focus: genetic diversity and future population health
Forest experts say the introduction of the new tiger is expected to bring positive genetic variation among the existing tiger population in Nauradehi.
The change in gene pool will help reduce the risk of inbreeding and support healthier future generations—an essential requirement for sustainable wildlife conservation.
Strategic release location after village relocation
The tiger has been released in the Mohli Range, an area that recently became vacant following the relocation of six villages as part of the rehabilitation process.
This has created a large, undisturbed habitat suitable for wildlife. Authorities stated that the location was carefully selected to avoid immediate territorial conflict with existing tigers.
Over time, the tiger is expected to establish its own territory and adapt naturally to the forest environment.
From orphaned cub to independent hunter
The journey of the new tiger has been marked by survival and rehabilitation. In April 2023, at just four months old, the cub was separated from its mother in Pench Tiger Reserve.
It was later relocated to Kanha, where it underwent nearly two and a half years of systematic training in a controlled enclosure, learning hunting skills and navigating the forest.
Gradually, the tiger expanded its range and successfully hunted on its own, proving its readiness for release into the wild.
Official clearance and conservation expectations
Following an assessment of its age, health, and hunting ability, the Forest Department granted permission for its relocation to Nauradehi.
Officials stated that the arrival of the new tiger is expected to positively influence the existing population and contribute to a more resilient tiger lineage in the reserve.
The development is seen as a significant milestone in Madhya Pradesh’s ongoing tiger conservation efforts, reinforcing the state’s position as a leading habitat for big cats in India.
Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts by following us» where «following us»
