A decade of collective action: securing a future for tigers and their habitats

The ITHCP has demonstrated that through collaboration with governments, international and national organisations, local communities, and various stakeholders, including the invaluable support of the German Cooperation (BMZ) through KfW Development Bank, tiger populations can recover. A multidimensional approach—integrating the protection of species, preservation of habitats, and supporting people—has led to significant progress in tiger conservation. But more importantly, successful conservation is not just about protecting landscapes; it is about empowering the people who live alongside wildlife. Sustainable tiger conservation is impossible without the involvement of Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

Through livelihood programmes and capacity-building initiatives, communities have been trained in wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching efforts, and sustainable farming practices among others. These initiatives have transformed local communities into stewards of the land and guardians of wildlife, fostering an inclusive and sustainable conservation model.

The progress over the past decade is indeed encouraging. In countries such as India, Nepal, and Bhutan, tiger populations have increased, and previously degraded habitats are showing signs of recovery. ITHCP has supported 44 protected and conserved areas, spanning over 69,000 km², and demonstrated what can be achieved through long-term dedicated conservation efforts. However, we cannot afford complacency. The legacy of the last 10 years should not be viewed as an endpoint but as a foundation for the next phase of tiger conservation.

Despite these successes, climate change, habitat fragmentation, and ongoing poaching continue to pose significant threats to tigers. In some regions, tiger populations remain dangerously low, and human-wildlife conflict persists. In response, ITHCP is integrating climate-resilient strategies to ensure tiger habitats can withstand environmental changes. We are also investing in research and technologies to enhance conservation outcomes. Advanced monitoring techniques, such as genetic sampling and drones are helping track tiger populations and their prey more accurately and monitor human wildlife conflict enabling data-driven decision-making.

However, technology and science alone will not solve these challenges. The next decade will require evolving conservation strategies, addressing emerging threats, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Tigers do not recognise borders, and neither should our conservation actions. Transboundary conservation efforts, involving multiple countries working together to protect shared tiger habitats, will be critical for the species' survival. Aligning tiger conservation with global biodiversity and climate goals—such as the Paris Agreement and the Global Biodiversity Framework—will further ensure our work contributes to broader environmental targets.

As we celebrate the achievements of the past decade, we must recognize that the next 10 years will be crucial. The ITHCP remains dedicated to this mission. In the coming years, we will expand transboundary projects, invest in cutting-edge technologies for monitoring, and scale up community-based conservation models.

Our vision is clear: a world where tigers, their habitats, and human communities coexist harmoniously, enriching the planet's biodiversity. As we look ahead, we call upon governments, organizations, and individuals to continue supporting this vital cause. The survival of tigers depends on our collective commitment. Together, we can secure a brighter future for this iconic species and the ecosystems that depend on them.

Phurba Lhendup
Coordinator, Integrated Tiger Habitat Conservation Programme