This comprehensive list of tiger reserves added to India’s network post-2020 highlights the nation’s commitment to wildlife conservation. These reserves strengthen ecological corridors, protect biodiversity, and contribute significantly to regional water and forest management. The integration of these protected areas into the broader conservation landscape ensures the survival of tigers and other species while promoting eco-tourism and community participation. Each reserve has unique attributes—spanning diverse flora, fauna, and cultural significance—that collectively reinforce India’s status as a global leader in tiger conservation.
Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve
Core Area: 641.86 square kilometers
Buffer Area: 374.70 square kilometers
Total Area: 1016.57 sq. km.
Year of Notification: 2021
The Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve (SMTR), established in 2021, is Tamil Nadu’s fifth and India’s 51st tiger reserve. It spans approximately 1,016.57 square kilometers, formed by merging the Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary and the Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary.
The reserve was created to link remote wildlife refuges, such as the Thenmala Reserve Forest, Periyar, Srivilliputhur, Anamalai, and Kalakkad Mundanthurai Reserve Forests. These areas are relatively close to one another but previously lacked connectivity. The tiger reserve aims to establish a contiguous corridor that supports the free movement of large cats and other wildlife, facilitating their survival and enhancing biodiversity conservation. The reserve serves as a critical ecological corridor, connecting Periyar Tiger Reserve, Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. This connectivity is vital for genetic diversity and sustaining species populations.
One of the reserve’s significant roles is the protection of the Vaigai River, which originates in Meghamalai. The reserve safeguards the river from land encroachments, allowing it to resume its perennial flow. This transformation is expected to turn the Vaigai River, historically non-perennial, into a perennial water source, benefiting agriculture and drinking water needs across five southern Tamil Nadu districts. New Tiger Reserves in India like SMTR play a crucial role in enhancing conservation and sustaining ecosystems.
Vegetation & Flora: The vegetation of the tiger reserve consists of tropical evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests, dry deciduous forests, moist mixed deciduous forests and grassland. Some of the species are Antidesma menasu, Casearia rubescens, Bhesa indica, Litsea floribunda, Elaeocarpus munronii, Melicope lunu-ankenda, Gomphandra tetrandra, Symplocos monantha , Syzygium densiflorum,.
Fauna: The reserve has rich diversity of animals some of the mammals of the tiger reserve are Elephas maximus, Panthera tigris, Panthera pardus, Nilgiritragus hylocrius, Bos gaurus, Axis axis, Muntiacus, Sus scrofa, Rusa unicolor, Trachypithecus johnii, Macaca silenus, Melursus ursinus, Gallus sonneratii, Lutrogale perspicillata, Macaca radiate.
Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve
Core Area: 481.9073 sq. km.
Buffer Area: 1019.9848 sq. km.
Total Area: 1501.8921 sq. km.
Year of Notification: 2022
New Tiger Reserves in India, such as the Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR), play a crucial role in preserving wildlife and biodiversity. Located in the southeastern part of Rajasthan, RVTR was officially declared as the state’s fourth tiger reserve on May 16, 2022. It is the 52nd tiger reserve in India. This reserve serves as a vital corridor connecting the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve to the Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, thus enhancing the landscape’s connectivity for tigers and other wildlife.
Nestled in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan, the reserve represents a blend of Vindhyan and Aravalli geological components. The Mez River, a tributary of the Chambal River, flows through the reserve, offering breathtaking landscapes. With rugged and rocky terrain, the reserve is situated within the semi-arid biogeographic zone of India.
Vegetation & Flora
The forests are categorized as “Dry Deciduous Forest” under the Champion and Seth classification. The predominant tree species include dhok (Anogeissus pendula), khair (Acacia catechu), amaltas (Cassia fistula), jamun (Syzygium cumini), tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon), and ber (Ziziphus mauritiana). Grasslands in valleys provide essential habitats for herbivores and carnivores, making the ecosystem robust and diverse.
Fauna
The reserve is home to a variety of species, including apex predators like tigers (Panthera tigris) and leopards (Panthera pardus). Other notable mammals include sloth bears (Melursus ursinus), hyenas (Hyaena hyaena), nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus), sambar deer (Rusa unicolor), and wild boars (Sus scrofa). Avian diversity is impressive, with over 150 bird species such as painted storks, black-necked storks, Indian peafowls, and dusky eagle-owls. Reptiles like the Indian python (Python molurus), Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii), and the star tortoise (Geochelone elegans) add to the reserve’s biodiversity.
Conservation Significance
RVTR plays a pivotal role in the long-term survival of tigers in Rajasthan by linking existing tiger habitats, thus ensuring genetic diversity and population stability. Its declaration as a tiger reserve has also strengthened efforts to curb habitat encroachments, particularly around the Mez River.
Ranipur Tiger Reserve
Core Area: 230.31 sq. km.
Buffer Area: 299.0512 sq. km.
Total Area: 529.3612 sq. km.
Year of Notification: 2022
Ranipur Tiger Reserve, situated in the Chitrakoot district of Uttar Pradesh, is a natural treasure within the Bundelkhand region, shared with Madhya Pradesh. This tiger reserve was officially notified in the 2022-2023 period, becoming the fourth tiger reserve in Uttar Pradesh after Dudhwa, Pilibhit, and Amangarh.
Nestled within the Vindhyan range, the reserve is characterized by northern tropical dry deciduous forests and grasslands, making it a diverse habitat for wildlife.
Vegetation & Flora: The forests mainly dry mixe deciduous and scrubland, including species such as Diospyros melanoxylon (tendu), Madhuca longifolia (mahua), Shorea robusta (sal), and Syzygium cumini (jamun). Other prominent species include Butea monosperma (palash), Boswellia serrata (salai), and Anogeissus latifolia (dhau).
Fauna: The reserve is home to an array of wildlife, including tigers (Panthera tigris), leopards (Panthera pardus), sloth bears (Melursus ursinus), chinkara (Gazella bennettii), blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), Indian wolf (Canis lupus), wild dogs (Cuon alpinus), and nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus). Bird species like peafowl (Pavo cristatus) and various galliformes are also found here.
Climate
The tiger reserve experiences a hot summer with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 48°C, while winters are relatively cooler, varying from 6°C to 26°C. The monsoon season brings moderate rainfall, enriching the forests and grasslands.
Cultural and Natural Attractions
Ranipur’s proximity to the historic and spiritual district of Chitrakoot adds a unique cultural dimension. Local festivities such as Dussehra and Diwali are celebrated with great enthusiasm.
Significant natural attractions include:
- Vedhak Jaldhara and Sabari Prapat
- Dharkundi Ashram, a spiritual retreat amidst serene landscapes.
- Scenic grasslands in Lakhanpur and Rujhawa.
Also Read: The Circle of Life – Tiger Cubs in India (Reproduction & Rearing)
Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve
Core Area: 230.31 sq. km.
Buffer Area: 299.0512 sq. km.
Total Area: 529.3612 sq. km.
Year of Notification: 2022
The Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, notified in September 2023, is another addition to India’s network of tiger reserves, making it the 54th in the country and the 7th in Madhya Pradesh. The reserve is named in honor of Veerangana Rani Durgavati, a 16th-century Gond queen known for her valor and governance. Situated within the Sagar, Damoh, and Narsinghpur districts, the reserve is strategically located in the Vindhyan landscape, an area of ecological significance.
It integrates the Nauradehi and Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuaries, which were previously recognized for their unique biodiversity and ecological importance.
Vegetation & Flora
The Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve boasts dry deciduous forests typical of the Vindhyan region. The flora of the reserve includes Teak (Tectona grandis) Saja (Terminalia tomentosa) Dhaora (Anogeissus latifolia) Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana)
Amla (Phyllanthus emblica)
Fauna
The reserve is home to a wide array of wildlife, making it a significant conservation area for several species:
- Large Carnivores: Tigers (Panthera tigris), leopards (Panthera pardus), wolves (Canis lupus), and striped hyenas (Hyaena hyaena).
- Herbivores: Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus), blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), chinkara (Gazella bennettii), sambar (Rusa unicolor), and chital (Axis axis).
- Primates: Common langurs (Semnopithecus entellus) and rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta).
- Others: Jackals (Canis aureus), Indian foxes (Vulpes bengalensis), barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak), and various bird species, including peafowls.
Historical and Cultural Importance
One of the most notable landmarks within the reserve is the Singorgarh Fort, a site linked to the legacy of Rani Durgavati.
Role in Tiger Conservation
Madhya Pradesh, known as the “Tiger State of India,” has consistently led tiger conservation efforts. The Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the state’s conservation network. It bridges the wildlife corridors connecting the Panna Tiger Reserve and the Satpura Tiger Reserve, enabling better genetic flow and movement of tiger populations.
Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve
Core Area: 599.6406 sq. km.
Buffer Area: Not declared yet
Total Area: 599.6406 sq. km.
Year of Notification: 2023
The Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve, officially designated in 2023, stands as India’s 54th tiger reserve and Rajasthan’s fifth, joining the ranks of Ranthambore, Sariska, Mukundra Hills, and Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserves.
Geographical Location and Area
Situated in the eastern part of Rajasthan, the reserve encompasses regions within the Dholpur and Karauli districts. It spans a total area of approximately 599.64 square kilometers, with a core area dedicated to critical tiger habitat.
Biodiversity
The Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve is a biodiversity hotspot, hosting a variety of flora and fauna:
Fauna: In addition to tigers, the reserve is home to leopards, hyenas, spotted deer, sambar deer, foxes, jackals, bears, wolves, and wild boars.
Flora: The reserve’s vegetation includes dense forests that provide an ideal habitat for diverse wildlife.
Conservation Significance
The establishment of the Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve is a significant step toward wildlife conservation in Rajasthan. It aims to provide a safe haven for tigers and other wildlife, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity in the region.
Tourism Potential
The reserve is expected to boost ecotourism in the region, offering opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to experience the rich biodiversity of Rajasthan. It is anticipated to open for tourists by the beginning of next year, enhancing the state’s appeal as a wildlife tourism destination.
Future Prospects
With the establishment of the Dholpur-Karauli Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan continues to strengthen its commitment to wildlife conservation. The reserve is expected to play a crucial role in the protection of tigers and other species, contributing to the overall ecological balance of the region.
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Guru Ghasidas – Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve
Core Area: 599.6406 sq. km.
Buffer Area: Not declared yet
Total Area: 599.6406 sq. km.
Year of Notification: 2024
Guru Ghasidas Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve, located in the northern part of Chhattisgarh, was officially declared a tiger reserve in 2021. It is Chhattisgarh’s fourth tiger reserve after Achanakmar, Udanti-Sitanadi, and Indravati Tiger Reserves. It was named after Guru Ghasidas, a revered Satnami saint, and incorporates the biodiversity-rich Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary.
New Tiger Reserves in India, such as Guru Ghasidas Tamor Pingla, play a pivotal role in conserving the nation’s tiger population. Situated in the eastern extension of the Satpura-Maikal Hills, the reserve forms an essential link in the central Indian tiger landscape.
Vegetation & Flora
The reserve predominantly consists of tropical dry deciduous forests and moist deciduous forests, characterized by: Sal (Shorea robusta) Teak (Tectona grandis), Saj (Terminalia tomentosa) Mahua (Madhuca indica) Ghost Tree (Sterculia urens) Bamboo species Various climbers, grasses, and shrubs that support herbivorous species.
Fauna
The rich biodiversity includes Tigers (Panthera tigris) Leopards (Panthera pardus) Sloth bears (Melursus ursinus) Indian Gaur (Bos gaurus) Chital (Axis axis) Sambar deer (Rusa unicolor), Wild boars (Sus scrofa) around 300 species of birds which includes vultures, lapwings, kingfishers and flycatchers.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The reserve is named after Guru Ghasidas, a prominent figure in the Satnami community known for advocating social equality.
Importance of Guru Ghasidas Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve
- Wildlife Corridors
The reserve acts as a crucial corridor between Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh and Palamau Tiger Reserve in Jharkhand, enabling genetic diversity and movement of tigers. - Tiger Conservation
Though tiger sightings are rare, the reserve has significant potential for a thriving tiger population due to its connectivity to other tiger habitats. - Conservation of Biodiversity
The area supports diverse ecosystems and is home to endangered species, making it a priority for conservation efforts. - Community Involvement
Conservation initiatives in the region involve local communities, creating awareness and promoting sustainable practices.
Tourism Potential
The reserve offers opportunities for eco-tourism and wildlife enthusiasts. Its serene landscapes, dense forests, and cultural backdrop make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve
Core Area: 763.812 sq. km.
Buffer Area: 507.653 sq. km.
Total Area: 1271.465 sq. km.
Year of Notification: 2024
Ratapani Tiger Reserve, located in the Raisen and Sehore districts of Madhya Pradesh, is a vital protected area recognized for its ecological significance and rich biodiversity. Declared a tiger reserve in 2013, Ratapani forms an important part of the Central Indian tiger landscape. The reserve is known for its dense forests, diverse fauna, and historical significance, including its proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhimbetka rock shelters.
The reserve is part of the Vindhya Range, with a landscape characterized by rugged hills, valleys, and plateaus. It is fed by the Ratapani and Kolar rivers, which sustain its ecosystem.
Vegetation & Flora
Ratapani’s forests are predominantly dry deciduous, with patches of moist deciduous vegetation. Key plant species include Teak (Tectona grandis) Sal (Shorea robusta) Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) Bamboo, Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon)
Fauna
The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including Tigers (Panthera tigris) Leopards (Panthera pardus), Sloth bears (Melursus ursinus), Indian wolves (Canis lupus pallipes), Wild dogs (Cuon alpinus), Chital (Axis axis), Sambar deer (Rusa unicolor), Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus)
More than 150 species of birds are reported from Ratapani in which the common ones are kingfishers, flycatchers, warblers etc. the Ratapani dam along the periphery of the reserve attracts thousands of migratory birds.
Historical and Cultural Significance
One of the reserve’s unique aspects is its proximity to the Bhimbetka rock shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for prehistoric rock art. These shelters provide insights into early human life and reflect the harmony between humans and nature.
Tourism Potential
Ratapani is an emerging destination for eco-tourism, offering opportunities for:
- Wildlife safaris
- Nature trails
- Birdwatching
- Cultural tours to Bhimbetka
Its serene landscape, combined with the thrill of spotting tigers and other wildlife, makes it a promising tourist attraction.
