Bhubaneswar, March 25 -- The tiger population in Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district is likely to witness a significant rise, with indications that the number may have crossed 40, according to former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Susanta Nanda.

Taking to the social media platform X, Nanda shared that the tiger count in Similipal could be nearing or exceeding the 40 mark, generating optimism among wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.

"Tourist sighting a tiger in Simlipal Tiger Reserve is more than special. The population had plummeted to just 6. In an ecological island without any connectivity. It bounced back in less than a decade. The recent tiger estimation is indicating at 40+. A story to be ...