Tiger Returns to Gujarat After 32 Years, Making It the Only State to Host Both Lions and Tigers
Gujarat has welcomed a tiger after more than three decades, marking a major moment for wildlife conservation in the state. The news headline, Tiger Returns to Gujarat reflects the significance of this event, as a male Royal Bengal tiger has been confirmed to be living in Ratan Mahal Wildlife Sanctuary in Dahod district for the last nine months.
Forest officials say the animal is about five years old and appears to be healthy. The tiger is believed to have migrated from neighbouring Madhya Pradesh, where tiger numbers have been rising. This long-term presence sets it apart from past cases where tigers were only spotted briefly in Gujarat.
A Historic Conservation Milestone
With the Tiger Returning to Gujarat, the state now hosts three major big cat species. Gujarat is already known for its lions in Saurashtra and leopards in central and northern regions. Now the tiger adds to the state’s wildlife legacy. Forest Minister Arjun Modhwadia called it a proud moment and said it shows Gujarat’s forests are capable of supporting diverse wildlife.
Officials have been monitoring the tiger using camera traps and field teams since February. Regular sightings confirm that this is not a temporary visit but a permanent settlement inside the sanctuary.
Why the Tiger Returned
Experts point to increasing tiger density in Madhya Pradesh as the reason for the migration. With growing numbers, younger tigers often leave existing territories in search of new land. Gujarat’s forests, especially those adjoining Jhabua and Kathiwada, offer natural corridor links that made the movement easier.
Focus on Protection and Prey Availability
Authorities are now working on improving prey numbers and habitat safety to ensure the tiger can survive long-term. The National Tiger Conservation Authority has also been informed.
Points highlighted by officials:
- First confirmed tiger presence in Gujarat after 32 years
- Estimated age around five years
- Migrated naturally from Madhya Pradesh
- Monitored for nine months with multiple camera sightings
- Authorities working on boosting prey population
This tiger migrated from MP & has made Rang Mahal Sanctuary of Gujurat his home.
— Susanta Nanda IFS (Retd) (@susantananda3) November 20, 2025
The state is hosting tiger after decades. This is what conservation is- tigers dispersing from source population to new sinks. pic.twitter.com/Xib0HOBe2v
Social Media and Public Response
The news has spread widely online after a video was shared by former IFS officer Susanta Nanda. He noted that the return of the tiger is a sign of successful conservation, as tigers disperse from core populations to new habitats.
What This Means for Gujarat’s Wildlife Future
The Tiger Returns to Gujarat development makes the state a unique wildlife region in India. With lions, leopards and now a tiger, Gujarat holds a rare position among states where multiple apex predators coexist.
The development also raises fresh expectations about future tiger conservation programmes, while reminding authorities of the need to balance human presence near forest areas.
