Nepal has been praised for its successful conservation efforts, which have led to a significant increase in the country’s tiger population. However, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has raised concerns about the growing number of tigers, suggesting that Nepal may have too many. At an event reviewing the country’s COP29 outcomes, Oli remarked, “In such a small country, we have more than 350 tigers… We can’t have so many tigers and let them eat up humans.”
According to government data, tiger attacks caused nearly 40 deaths and 15 injuries between 2019 and 2023, though local communities believe the actual numbers may be higher. In response, Oli proposed that Nepal’s tiger population be capped at 150, and suggested sending some tigers abroad as diplomatic gifts.
Experts, however, believe the focus should be on expanding protected areas rather than limiting tiger numbers. Tiger biologist Ullas Karanth emphasized that the number of tigers in a region should depend on the availability of prey, with each tiger requiring access to around 500 prey animals, such as deer or antelopes. Karanth argues that Nepal should focus on expanding protected areas to ensure a sustainable balance between tiger populations and their food sources.
Human-tiger conflicts have become more frequent, especially in areas near forests where tigers leave protected zones in search of food. Buffer zones between national parks and nearby human settlements have seen an increase in tiger sightings and attacks. Forest corridors connecting parks are also dangerous for locals who use these areas for grazing and foraging.
While Oli’s idea of sending tigers abroad has sparked debate, experts like Karanth believe that tigers responsible for repeated attacks should be removed from the wild. Critics argue that human encroachment into tiger habitats has worsened the situation, reducing prey availability and increasing the likelihood of conflict. The debate continues as Nepal faces challenges in balancing conservation success with the safety of its people.
