The Dholpur forest area, which has recently received approval from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to become the state's 5th Tiger Reserve, is already showing promising outcomes. A camera trap has successfully captured an image of Tigress T-117, along with her cubs. This marks the second time that Ranthambore Tigress T-117 has been spotted with her offspring, indicating her prolonged stay in the area for nearly two and a half years.

The proposed reserve currently houses six majestic big cats. The forest staff has confirmed that the cubs in question are fathered by tiger T-116. Interestingly, a reliable source disclosed that the tigress had given birth to two cubs two years ago; however, there is no evidence of their presence in the forest. This has prompted the department to undertake meticulous surveillance of the newly born cubs this time, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Following the submission of the proposal this year, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has granted initial approval for the official designation of the Karauli-Sarmathura-Dholpur sanctuary areas as the Dholpur Tiger Reserve (DTR). The forest department asserts that the committee, responsible for defining the reserve's boundaries, has successfully addressed the concerns raised by the NTCA. One of the committee members reported the presence of mining activities in proximity to the proposed reserve. After conducting a thorough inspection, the committee has recommended including only those areas that ensure a safe and suitable habitat for the tigers.

The initial proposal outlines the coverage of the tiger reserve, spanning across a total area of 1,058 square kilometers. This includes a core area of 368 square kilometers and a buffer area of 690 square kilometers. The core area will consist of contributions from both the Karauli and Dholpur districts, with 197 square kilometers and 170 square kilometers respectively. Furthermore, a small portion of the forest in Bharatpur district has also been incorporated into the proposed tiger reserve.

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