3 Things Express Investigation: How new-age poachers threaten India’s tigers
Mar 26, 2025
Jay Mazoomdaar, an investigative journalist for The Indian Express specializing in wildlife, reveals alarming insights into the resurgence of tiger poaching in India. He discusses the shocking statistics, with over a dozen arrests and estimates of 100 or more tigers lost since 2022. The evolving smuggling routes, particularly through Myanmar, are highlighted, showcasing the criminals’ adaptive tactics. Jay also underscores the challenges faced by government agencies, including financial tracking issues and manpower shortages, as well as the essential role of NGOs in combating this crisis.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Poaching Cycle
- Tiger poaching, driven by profit, remains widespread despite regulations.
- Poaching resurges after periods of high alert and increased tiger populations, creating a cyclical pattern.
Complacency and Poaching
- Good news about tiger population growth can inadvertently encourage poachers.
- Complacency after anti-poaching successes allows poachers to regroup and resume activities.
Shifting Tiger Market
- The primary market for tiger products has shifted to China, focusing on tiger bones rather than skins.
- The demand for tiger bones from wild tigers in India has led to increased poaching to satisfy Chinese market demand.