(a) whether the population of tiger in the country is not reflected properly because we
are following pug mark counting method which is not recognised internationally;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government proposes to adopt DNA sampling method which is scientifically acknowledged method of counting tigers; and
(d) if so, the time by when this method is likely to be introduced?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)
(a) & (b) As per the findings of the recent All India tiger estimation in 2008 using the
refined methodology as recommended by the Tiger Task Force, carried out in collaboration with
the Wildlife Institute of India and tiger States, the total country-level population of tiger
is 1411 (mid value); the lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. The
State-wise tiger population and area of tiger occupied landscapes are indicated in Annexure-I.
The new findings are based on spatial occupancy of tigers and sampling such forests using
camera traps in a statistical framework, which is not comparable to the earlier total count
using pugmarks.
(c) & (d) Advisories have been issued to ascertain the minimum number of tigers through
DNA analysis using scats in tiger reserves affected by left wing extremism, besides those with
low density of tigers.