Poaching alarm near Ranthambhore: Seized bones show three tigers killed

Ranthambhore, Rajasthan – July 2, 2025

A major poaching case has triggered alarm near Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. Forest officials found tiger bones and body parts during a raid on the outskirts of Sawai Madhopur. Investigators confirmed that at least three adult tigers were killed.

Grim Discovery Sparks Concern

Acting on a tip from local informants, forest teams and police raided a remote area outside the reserve. They recovered bones, claws, and whiskers—belonging to three tigers. DNA testing confirmed the remains came from different tigers, including one prime-aged male.

“This is clearly not a random act,” said a senior official. “The poachers knew what they were doing.”

Officials believe the items were collected for sale in the illegal wildlife trade, particularly for use in traditional medicine.

Tigers Face Growing Risk

Despite strong protections, Ranthambhore’s tigers still face threats. The park houses over 80 tigers, making it a key part of India’s conservation efforts. However, poaching remains a challenge in the buffer zones and nearby villages.

Tiger parts—especially bones—are in demand in illegal Asian markets. Many people wrongly believe they hold medicinal value.

“This case shows the poachers are back,” said conservationist Rakesh Meena. “Losing three tigers at once is devastating.”

He urged stronger surveillance, more patrols, and better cooperation with local communities.

Criminal Network Exposed

Investigators believe the poachers used steel traps and poisoned bait. They likely planned to smuggle the remains out of Rajasthan.

Authorities have detained five suspects, including two with prior wildlife crime records. More arrests could follow. Officials are also looking into how the poachers moved freely around protected areas.

“We’ll take strong legal action,” said a WCCB officer. “This kind of crime can’t go unpunished.”

Forest officials are working with forensic experts to trace the origin of the tools and remains.

Tiger Conservation Under Threat

India hosts over 70% of the world’s wild tigers. Ranthambhore plays a vital role in protecting them. The 2022 tiger census reported 3,167 tigers, up from 2,967 in 2018. Still, these gains can be undone if poaching is not stopped.

To prevent further losses, the forest department has added more guards and drones to monitor vulnerable zones.

“Technology and community support are key,” said wildlife researcher Alka Singh. “Villagers should be encouraged to report poaching instead of helping it.”

Public Reaction and Government Action

The killings have angered wildlife supporters. Social media is full of demands for justice and stronger protections. Rajasthan’s environment minister, Rajendra Rathore, called the incident “unacceptable.”

He ordered an audit of anti-poaching measures across all reserves. The state plans to increase funding, use AI for tracking, and form a special anti-poaching unit.

India’s Global Wildlife Role

India has signed international agreements like CITES to fight wildlife crime. Frequent poaching incidents can hurt India’s global image and weaken its leadership in conservation.

This case highlights a tough truth: laws alone can’t protect tigers. Vigilance, public awareness, and real action are the need of the hour.