Fri Apr 10 09:45:55 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Leopard Deaths in Madhya Pradesh Raise Concerns Despite Rising Population

The Story:

A recent Right to Information (RTI) query revealed that 149 leopards died in Madhya Pradesh over a 14-month period starting in January 2025. Accidents were the leading cause of these fatalities. While activist Ajay Dube, who filed the RTI, expressed concern over the high number, the Forest Department stated that efforts are underway to reduce deaths and that a 4% mortality rate is within an acceptable range for large cat populations.

Despite the deaths, the leopard population in Madhya Pradesh is on the rise. The ‘Status of Leopards in India 2022’ report, released in February 2024, indicated that the state boasts the highest leopard population in the country at 3,907, a significant increase from the 3,421 reported in 2018.

Key Points:

  • 149 leopard deaths were recorded in Madhya Pradesh from January 2025 onwards over a 14-month period.
  • Accidents are the primary cause of leopard deaths.
  • Activist Ajay Dube raised concerns about the figures.
  • The Forest Department claims a 4% mortality rate is acceptable.
  • Madhya Pradesh has the highest leopard population in India at 3,907 (as of 2022), up from 3,421 in 2018.

Key Takeaways:

  • While leopard deaths are a concern, the overall population in Madhya Pradesh is increasing.
  • The high number of accidental deaths suggests a need for improved conservation efforts, specifically focusing on mitigating human-animal conflict and reducing hazards like road accidents.
  • The Forest Department’s perspective on acceptable mortality rates may differ from that of conservation activists, highlighting the need for transparent and collaborative management strategies.

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