Wed Feb 25 00:59:05 UTC 2026: # Andhra Pradesh Bolsters Tiger Population in Papikonda National Park
The Story:
The Andhra Pradesh State government is actively working to establish a thriving tiger population within Papikonda National Park (PNP) in the Godavari Valley. Following the successful reintroduction of an adult male tiger, named ‘Explorer,’ the state is now coordinating with Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh to translocate two female tigers to the PNP. The effort, dubbed “Operation Stripes,” aims to capitalize on Explorer’s presence and the park’s abundant prey, with the ultimate goal of creating a self-sustaining tiger population.
Key Points:
- The adult male tiger, ‘Explorer,’ was reintroduced into Papikonda National Park on February 14, 2026.
- ‘Explorer’ had previously traveled over 650 kilometers from the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra.
- The Andhra Pradesh government is seeking two female tigers from Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
- Deputy Chief Minister and Forest Minister K. Pawan Kalyan has appealed to the respective state governments.
- The translocation will likely involve airlifting the female tigers to avoid logistical challenges.
- 39 deer have been introduced into the PNP as part of “prey augmentation” for Explorer.
Key Takeaways:
- Andhra Pradesh is taking proactive steps to conserve and grow its tiger population.
- Inter-state cooperation is crucial for wildlife conservation efforts.
- Translocation and prey augmentation are key strategies in tiger conservation.
- The success of “Operation Stripes” hinges on the successful integration of the new female tigers.
- The project demonstrates a commitment to biodiversity and ecological balance.
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