Tiger count doubles in Chhattisgarh's Achanakmar reserve, report says conditions ripe for more growth
The reserve now has multiple breeding-age tigers with a a healthy sex ratio for the first time in 15 years, , said the report released on Tuesday.
Three tigers and seven tigresses were photographed last year. In 2017, the reserve had four tigers and just one tigress, it noted.
'Conditions appear to be ripe for the population to grow steadily,' it said.
Also read | Gujarat's Banni grasslands readying for translocation of cheetahs
'The population status and trend of tigers and prey in ATR (Achanakmar Tiger Reserve) were assessed using camera trap data from the 2017 to 2024, and line transect data from 2019 and 2024. There is evidence for progressive recovery of the tiger population over this period, with 10 resident tigers being photo-captured in 2024, relative to 5 in 2017,' the report said.
'Line transect data' here refers to a technique that involves walking or moving along a line to count the animals.
More prey available too
The population density of the tigers' prey, the wild ungulate, has also shown an upward trend between 2019 and 2024, according to the analysis.
'Ungulate densities were highest in the Achanakmar and Chhaparwa ranges, which coincide with areas that have been constantly used by multiple tigers over the study period. Conversely, other ranges like Lamni and Surahi were associated with lower prey densities and tiger presence, suggesting potential for future recovery efforts,' the report said.
Radio collars and other recommendations
WWF India has recommended radio-collaring of tigers as per existing protocol and gain insights about the foraging ecology and habitat use. Focus should be on breeding females and dispersal-age animals, it said.
'The tiger reserve and corridors comprise large areas recognised as Community Forest Resources Rights (CFRR) under the FRA, 2006. The Forest Department, NGOs, and community institutes in key villages must collaborate to promote conservation through co-management of these areas,' the report recommended.
It emphasised the crucial role of the Kanha-Achanakmar and Bandhavgarh-Achanakmar corridors in enabling tiger population recovery in the area. It further stressed the need for sustained and adaptive management practices, effective protection measures, and active community participation in conservation.
Move to restore habitat
In a separate event, on the occasion of Global Tiger Day, Union environment minister Bhupender Yadav announced the launch of a nationwide tree plantation drive, where over 1 lakh saplings will be planted across all 58 tiger reserves.
As part of this initiative, authorities of each tiger reserve are to plant 2,000 saplings of indigenous plant species in degraded areas to promote habitat restoration.
The event included the inauguration of forest nurseries at three locations in the Aravalli landscape.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
21 hours ago
- Time of India
750-acre forest to breathe life into Gurgaon air
Gurgaon: In a move to combat urban environmental challenges, the city is set to host one of NCR's largest urban forest projects. The 750-acre 'Matri Van' along Gurgaon-Faridabad Road will serve as a green buffer, combining ecological conservation with public recreation spaces. The project, launched under the govt's 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative, will span five villages — Chakkarpur, Haiderpur Viran, Wazirabad, Ghata, and Nathupur. It will extend from Khushboo Chowk to Ghat Chowk, connecting with the existing Aravali Biodiversity Park and Nagar Van on the Chakkarpur hill belt. Union environment minister Bhupender Yadav and the minister for housing and urban affairs Manohar Lal Khattar inaugurated the project in Sector 54 on Saturday. The forest will be developed through partnerships between CSR entities, RWAs, NGOs, multinationals, and govt bodies. While plantation of saplings will start within a week, it will continue for the next five years. The result, according to officials, will be visible in a week. You Can Also Check: Gurgaon AQI | Weather in Gurgaon | Bank Holidays in Gurgaon | Public Holidays in Gurgaon The project, officials said, will focus on native flora. The plantation drive will feature indigenous species like bargad, peepal, gullar, and Aravali-specific trees such as dhauk, kullu, and khairi. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Indonesia: New Container Houses (Prices May Surprise You) Container House | Search ads Search Now Undo Themed spaces, including Bodhi Vatika, Medicinal Plant Grove, and a butterfly park, will add to the forest's diversity. "We're not just planting saplings. We're dedicating an entire forest to mothers," said Yadav, adding that invasive Prosopis juliflora shrubs would be removed to revive degraded forest patches. The project's design will incorporate sustainable features like water conservation through recycling and misting systems. Public amenities will include walking tracks, yoga zones, and forest interpretation signage, with 10 thatched huts planned as interim rest points. An Aravalli Arboretum — a botanical garden-like zone focused on showcasing native flora — will serve as an educational zone, featuring specialised corners for research and learning. "Cities like Gurgaon are choking on concrete. Urban forests such as 'Matri Van' don't just improve air quality and water retention — they also provide people with access to nature," said Anand Mohan Sharan, additional chief secretary of environment, Haryana. During the inauguration, minister Khattar highlighted that urban forests helped cool city temperatures, reduce air pollutants, support groundwater recharge, and served as carbon sinks. "India has committed to creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5–3 billion tonnes of CO₂, equivalent by 2030 through afforestation. Projects like Matri Van are expected to play a significant role in achieving that target," he added. The project's funding combines multiple sources, including Rs 7.5 crore from development and CSR partners, Rs 2.5 crore from govt agencies, and additional allocations from various schemes, totalling Rs 14.7 crore. An extra Rs 10 crore could be sought from central govt schemes, officials suggested. "The plantation drive will be phased. The company assigned the project will have to maintain it for three years," said Subhash Yadav, the chief conservator of forests in South Haryana. Once complete, 'Matri Van' will be one of the largest consolidated green zones of Delhi-NCR, designed not only for ecological restoration but also as a public space for learning, leisure, and climate resilience. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes , messages and quotes !
Hindustan Times
21 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Weekly Tarot Card Readings: Free tarot horoscope from August 3-9, 2025
Aries (March 21 to April 20) Love: The Moon Mood: Three of Wands Career: Temperance Read the weekly tarot prediction based on zodiac signs between July 6-12, 2025. (Pixabay) This week may bring a noticeable uplift in your vitality, encouraging you to take on physical tasks with renewed confidence. Financial matters show signs of improvement, and the probability of incoming gains can offer a welcome breather. Professionally, momentum continues to build as consistent effort may soon lead to well-deserved recognition. At home, shared warmth helps deepen emotional connections. In matters of love, mixed signals could leave you second-guessing, making open communication the most reliable path forward. Travel plans may need to be reworked, especially if routes or schedules seem uncertain. Avoid making quick property decisions, as underlying complexities could cause delays. Academically, you are likely to feel more confident and in control, so channel this energy wisely. Trust that patience leads to clarity, even when things feel confusing. Lucky Number: 7 Lucky Colour: Dark Red Taurus (April 21 to May 20) Love: Hermit Mood: Five of Swords Career: Six of Coins Your system feels lighter and more responsive, especially if you have recently embraced mindful habits. Financially, stability continues, but resisting the urge to splurge will help preserve this balance. Your career is on steady ground, and sticking to routine methods may yield better results than dramatic shifts. Within the family, certain conversations may test your patience, so focus on being flexible rather than reactive. Romance carries an intense and meaningful tone, making it an ideal time to express heartfelt feelings. A journey may unfold with unexpected emotional insight, offering joy and self-awareness. Property discussions are likely to move in your favour, bringing a sense of completion. Academically, staying focused despite distractions will be your strength, so try to avoid outside noise. Let passion lead you forward when logic feels limiting. Lucky Number: 22 Lucky Colour: Cream Gemini (May 21 to June 21) Love: Judgement Mood: The Emperor Career: The Hanged Man This week encourages a deeper focus on health routines, especially if any vaccinations or medical follow-ups are overdue. Financial choices may feel tight, but a closer review can guide you to better decisions. At work, a shift in your workflow may feel unsettling at first, yet adapting quickly can help you regain control. Emotional support from those close to you can ground you and ease external pressures. Expressing your true feelings in love may lead to unexpected emotional warmth. Travel or local errands may keep you busy but are likely to be productive. Property conversations might feel inconclusive for now, so give them time to evolve. Academically, cutting back on digital distractions may help you regain the focus you've been missing. Lucky Number: 2 Lucky Colour: White Cancer (June 22 to July 22) Love: Ten of Cups Mood: Three of Coins Career: Devil Your energy is rising steadily, making physical activities more engaging and enjoyable. Financial decisions are best made with balance in mind, avoiding both risk and restriction. Professionally, you may feel like you are operating on autopilot, but a spark of extra effort can bring fresh attention to your work. At home, emotions may run high, so listening with empathy will help maintain peace. In love, moments of disconnection could cause confusion, but taking a step back to reflect may lead to clarity. A trip, whether planned or spontaneous, may bring much-needed mental space. Property matters appear promising and could move ahead smoothly. Academically, if your goals feel out of reach, try visualising success to reignite your motivation. Lucky Number: 11 Lucky Colour: Orange Leo (July 23 to August 23) Love: The World Mood: The Strength Career: The Sun You may feel your body craving rest, and incorporating physical therapy, yoga, or mindful movement can help with overall restoration. Financial management looks strong, and your efforts toward strategic saving could bring long-term rewards. At work, you're operating at a performance peak that others are likely to notice and appreciate. Home becomes a source of vibrant, supportive energy, giving you the emotional recharge you need. Romantic feelings may seem unclear at the moment, but time and honest communication will help bring clarity. A new travel opportunity could expand your worldview in ways you hadn't expected. It's a good time to reassess property matters and delay commitments until you're sure. Academically, if you have been sidestepping goals, reconnect with your core motivation to realign with purpose. Lucky Number: 8 Lucky Colour: Maroon Virgo (August 24 to September 23) Love: Eight of Swords Mood: The Fool Career: The Tower Light aerobics or a simple fitness routine could boost your stamina and help reset your physical energy. A quick spending review may reveal minor imbalances, so adjusting early can prevent future stress. Career-wise, new opportunities for growth or leadership are emerging and you must step up with confidence. At home, conversations around family legacy or values may bring emotional closeness. If your romantic life feels disconnected, taking a compassionate pause instead of pushing forward will help realign the bond. A journey linked to a cause or personal purpose may offer unexpected emotional fulfillment. Real estate opportunities could land in your favour, particularly if your paperwork is in place. Academically, mental clarity helps reinforce your self-belief; trust in your preparation and take action. Lucky Number: 5 Lucky Colour: Cream Libra (September 24 to October 23) Love: Knight of Swords Mood: Page of Swords Career: Hierophant You may find physical well-being improving through small changes like posture correction or strength training. Keeping an eye on your spending habits will help you stay on track financially, and making subtle adjustments could prevent future stress. At work, tasks might feel repetitive or mundane, but injecting creativity will bring renewed energy. Household interactions could feel slightly tense, but soft-spoken words and a dose of humour may shift the mood. Intimacy in love might dip, but focusing on emotional bonding will help rebuild closeness. Travel plans bring excitement, especially if taken spontaneously. Property matters are best put on hold unless all details are clearly understood. Academically, if progress feels slow, use this time to reorganize and realign your learning goals. Lucky Number: 4 Lucky Colour: Blue Scorpio (October 24 to November 22) Love: Ten of Cups Mood: Eight of Wands Career: The Lovers Your body may respond well to dietary tweaks, helping improve your overall energy levels. Financial prospects appear bright, and unexpected gains from bonuses or investments could pleasantly surprise you. While work output might seem ordinary, staying steady and dependable will earn respect. Emotional support from family will feel comforting and reassuring, even without many words. In love, fragile connections may need space and respect more than dramatic gestures. A refreshing trip could offer clarity and even bring about an emotional breakthrough. Property deals look favourable this week, so take advantage of strong timing. Academically, pay attention to detail, as even small errors could snowball if left unchecked. Lucky Number: 9 Lucky Colour: Golden Sagittarius (November 23 to December 21) Love: Two of Swords Mood: The Strength Career: The Tower You may feel a need to pace yourself physically, so avoid overexertion and focus on building stamina gradually. Financially, steady income offers a sense of security and control. At work, past efforts may finally gain recognition, putting you in a better position. Family dynamics may fluctuate between open conversations and quieter moments, so embracing both will help maintain harmony. Romantic chemistry could intensify, giving your heart a welcome jolt of connection. Travel plans might face minor setbacks, so staying flexible will serve you well. Property concerns may come with hidden complexities, so gather all the facts before moving forward. Academically, a surge of curiosity may spark interest in new areas—follow it with purpose. Lucky Number: 15 Lucky Colour: Brown Capricorn (December 22 to January 21) Love: The Sun Mood: The Magician Career: Two of Coins Your physical endurance feels strong this week, so take advantage of it to boost both productivity and well-being. Financial reserves provide a cushion against any surprises, making it a good time to plan for the future. Professionally, you might feel stuck in a rut, but introducing new ideas or collaborations can bring fresh energy. At home, peaceful interactions will allow you to relax and recharge. Emotional ups and downs in romance are possible, but honest dialogue will bring balance and mutual understanding. Travel could be disrupted, so keep alternative plans in place. Property matters seem stable and protected, making this a good time for document reviews or negotiations. Academically, if motivation dips, break large tasks into smaller ones to avoid burnout. Lucky Number: 1 Lucky Colour: Beige Aquarius (January 22 to February 19) Love: Four of Coins Mood: King of Wands Career: The Empress Your body may be craving structure, so introducing minor changes to your daily routine could create lasting benefits. Financial management calls for tighter control, especially if recent expenses have been on the higher side. At work, productivity may dip unless you find new ways to stay engaged and inspired. Family brings calm and grounding energy, helping you restore emotional balance. Love runs deep this week, with opportunities to express appreciation and strengthen emotional bonds. Travel could offer exactly the shift you have been needing, both emotionally and mentally. Property matters may shift direction unexpectedly, so take expert advice before moving ahead. Academically, resetting your routine may help revive your pace and enthusiasm. Lucky Number: 8 Lucky Colour: Saffron Pisces (February 20 to March 20) Love: The Chariot Mood: Seven of Swords Career: Three of Coins You are moving into a recovery phase that requires a calm and measured approach, both physically and emotionally. Financial gains may arrive through returns or delayed payments, uplifting your sense of stability. Professionally, this is a time for refining your skills, so welcome learning opportunities instead of avoiding them. Family bonds offer strong emotional support if you choose to share your inner world more openly. In love, misunderstandings might arise, but better communication and active listening can resolve them. Travel brings mental clarity and may help you shift perspective. Property valuations may go up, offering timely options if you are considering a move. Academically, breaking larger goals into bite-sized steps can restore your focus and drive. Lucky Number: 17 Lucky Colour: Light Grey By: Manisha Koushik (Astrologer, Tarot Card Reader, Numerologist, Vastu & Fengshui Consultant) Email: support@ Url: Contact: +919650015920
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Hindustan Times
What are the benefits of closed kitchens? Here's how viral trend is making a comeback
A kitchen is said to be the heart of a home, so it is no wonder that a lot of thought goes into how it looks. While open kitchens have a set of perks, they lack the privacy and separation from the rest of the home that closed kitchen spaces offer. Image for representation.(Pixabay) Some time back, actually around two decades back, the Tuscan-style kitchen was nothing more than some quirky design no one had expected to see trend again. But now, it seems to be making a comeback. While open kitchens have been all the rage in recent times, there is a noticeable shift in trends, House Digest observed, with many leaning towards kitchens with closed layouts – showing that no design choice is truly ever dead or immortal. So, why are people opting for the closed kitchen design over the open one? Benefits of closed kitchens While open kitchens have a set of perks, they lack the privacy and separation from the rest of the home that closed kitchen spaces offer. House Digest notes this may cause the space to lose some of its charm or character. Also Read | Small but mighty: Clever design ideas for compact spaces The closed space, alternately, takes a more traditional approach with the cooking space becoming a dedicated area through a doorway. This design works for people who want to remain focused while cooking. While one may not be able to chat with guests when preparing food, the closed kitchen plan also saves others the trouble of being exposed to the mess and odors that are inevitable in the cooking process. Further, closed kitchens mean more walls, which translates to more storage space if cabinets and shelves are put up. Finally, closed kitchen spaces convey a sense of intimacy, and since homeowners are leaning towards spaces that feel cozy, this design trend seems to be most obvious choice. How to work with a closed kitchen design It's important to have a kitchen plan – focused on functionality and practicality in place – before going with the decor. House Digest also spoke to designers who suggested that it is important to focus on a specific energy within the space – whether someone wants to go with cozy, conversational, productive, or calm.
