India reported 166 tiger deaths in 2025, an increase from the previous year, sparking concern among wildlife advocates. While the exact tiger population is debated, the official count was 3,167 in 2021-22. Causes for increased unnatural mortality are under investigation, with potential factors including overcapacity in sanctuaries due to habitat manipulation, conflicts from territorial disputes, infrastructure projects, poaching, and traps. Expanding sanctuaries faces local community opposition, highlighting the challenge of balancing conservation with human interests.