Achanakmar Tiger reserve

Why in the News?

1. Achanakmar Tiger Reserve’s tiger population increased from five in 2022 to 18 in 2025, aided by the arrival of tigress Jhumri from Bandhavgarh in 2018.
2. Enhanced conservation measures including patrolling, GIS-based monitoring, artificial waterholes, and creation of super grasslands helped protect tigers and reduce human-animal conflict.
3. As a key wildlife corridor between Kanha and Bandhavgarh, ATR’s revival highlights the success of integrated conservation combining technology, habitat management, and community participation.

About Achanakmar Tiger Reserve

1. Location and Establishment
   1. Located in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh.
   2. Initially declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1975, it was upgraded to a tiger reserve in 2009.
   3. It forms part of the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve.
2. Ecological Significance
   1. Acts as a vital wildlife corridor connecting Kanha and Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserves, facilitating tiger movement and maintaining genetic diversity.
3. Tribal Communities
   1. Home to indigenous communities such as Baigas (PVTG), Gonds, and Yadavs.
4. River and Water Resources
   1. The Maniyari River flows through the reserve and is considered its lifeline.
   2. It eventually merges with the Seonath River in the Mahanadi Basin.
5. Vegetation and Flora
   1. Dominated by tropical moist deciduous forests.
   2. Key tree species include Sal, Saja, Tinsa, Bija, Haldu, Teak, Dhawara, Lendia, Khamar, and Bamboo.
6. Fauna
   1. Major wildlife species include tiger, leopard, wild dog, hyena, bison, chinkara, sambar, chital, and flying squirrel.