Question

Which of the following Indian states is known for its significant population of the Bengal Tiger?

• A. Karnataka
• B. Tamil Nadu
• C. Madhya Pradesh
• D. Maharashtra

Hint:

• India conducts periodic tiger censuses to monitor populations.
• Key states with high tiger populations include Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, and Maharashtra.
• Madhya Pradesh is often referred to as the "Tiger State" and frequently reports the highest tiger numbers.
• Major tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh include Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Pench.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

India is home to the largest population of Bengal tigers in the world. The "Status of Tigers in India" report, released periodically (e.g., by the National Tiger Conservation Authority), provides estimates of tiger populations across different states. Historically and in recent surveys, several states have shown significant tiger populations.

• Madhya Pradesh has frequently held the title of "Tiger State" in India, often reporting the highest number of tigers in the country. It has numerous tiger reserves like Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Satpura, and Panna. For instance, in the 2022 tiger census summary, Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of tigers (785).
• Karnataka also has a very significant tiger population, often ranking second or very close to the top. Key reserves include Bandipur, Nagarahole, and BRT Tiger Reserve. In the 2022 summary, Karnataka had 563 tigers.
• Uttarakhand is another state with a high tiger density, particularly in Corbett Tiger Reserve. It had 560 tigers in the 2022 summary.
• Maharashtra also has a notable tiger population (444 tigers in 2022 summary), with reserves like Tadoba-Andhari.
• Tamil Nadu has a good number of tigers as well (306 tigers in 2022 summary), particularly in areas like Mudumalai and Anamalai.

Given the options, and recognizing Madhya Pradesh's consistent high numbers and its "Tiger State" moniker, it is the most appropriate answer for "significant population." While Karnataka also has a very significant population, Madhya Pradesh has often been at the top in recent years. \[ \boxed{\text{Madhya Pradesh}} \]