Odisha Welcomes New Tigress to Similipal Tiger Reserve as Part of Tiger Translocation Project

Bhubaneswar: In a continued effort to strengthen the tiger population at Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), the Odisha Forest Department has successfully brought a second tigress, named Ganga, from Maharashtra’s Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR). Following the recent relocation of tigress Jamuna in October 27, this translocation aims to enhance genetic diversity within Similipal’s tiger community.

Ganga was transported to STR under tight security as part of a collaborative project approved by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). After a brief period of acclimatization, similar to that of Jamuna, Ganga will be introduced into the wild.

This tiger translocation project reflects Odisha’s commitment to conservation, with further plans to bring three more tigers—one male and two females—from Madhya Pradesh to Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Sambalpur district.

Jamuna was recently released into the wild after a brief acclimatization period in an enclosure at STR. Both translocations have received the green light from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

The tiger translocation project aims to introduce new genes into Similipal’s big cat population, supporting the reserve’s ecological balance and fostering long-term conservation. Expanding this initiative, the state government plans to relocate three more tigers—one male and two females—from Madhya Pradesh to Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Sambalpur district.

According to the latest All Odisha Tiger Estimation 2023-24, Odisha’s tiger population stands at 30 adult tigers and eight cubs, with Similipal alone home to 27 adults (14 females and 13 males) and all eight cubs. The department views these translocations as essential to enhancing genetic diversity and strengthening Odisha’s tiger conservation efforts.