What was the estimated tiger population in the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve at the time of expansion?

At the time of the expansion, STR had an estimated 101 tigers. This population estimate is a key baseline for wildlife managers: the expansion is expected to help population growth by consolidating habitat, improving adherence to NTCA guidelines, and enabling better funding and management. However, the reserve faces operational challenges—the brief cites a 40% manpower shortage, financial constraints, and concerns from local fishing communities about livelihood impacts. Knowing the current population (101) helps in setting targets for future monitoring, anti-poaching patrols, and human–wildlife conflict mitigation.