Snow leopard population growth
Rising Snow Leopard Numbers in Himachal Pradesh: Himachal Pradesh has recorded a 62% rise in snow leopards, from 51 in 2021 to 83 in 2025. This marks one of the most significant conservation successes in India’s Himalayan landscape. The count reflects sustained monitoring and protection efforts under state and national schemes.
Habitat and range
Snow leopards, scientifically known as Panthera uncia, are found across 12 range countries in Asia, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Mongolia. In India, they are distributed across the Himalayan and trans-Himalayan regions such as Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim.
Static GK fact: Ladakh hosts the largest snow leopard population in India.
Unique adaptations
Referred to as the “ghost of the mountains”, the snow leopard’s white-gray coat provides effective camouflage in rocky terrains. They are adapted to cold climates, with thick fur and long tails used for balance and warmth. Their elusive nature makes population estimation a challenge.
Conservation status
Globally, snow leopards are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. They are also protected under CITES Appendix I and the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Schedule I), ensuring the highest degree of legal protection.
Static GK tip: Only Schedule I animals in India receive maximum protection and strict penalties for hunting.
Project Snow Leopard
The Government of India launched Project Snow Leopard in 2009 to conserve the species and its fragile alpine ecosystem. The initiative emphasizes a landscape-level approach, community participation, and integration of local livelihoods with conservation. Himachal Pradesh has been a key implementing state under this program.
Conservation challenges
Despite progress, snow leopards face threats from habitat loss, prey depletion, poaching, and climate change. Human-wildlife conflict is also a concern as snow leopards sometimes prey on livestock in high-altitude villages. Effective mitigation programs are vital to balance ecology with human needs.
Global importance
The snow leopard is a flagship species for mountain ecosystems. Protecting it also ensures the conservation of other alpine wildlife and water security, as Himalayan glaciers are critical sources for Asia’s major rivers. International collaboration through the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP) further strengthens long-term conservation.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Rising Snow Leopard Numbers in Himachal Pradesh:
| Topic | Detail |
| Population in Himachal Pradesh | Increased from 51 in 2021 to 83 in 2025 |
| Scientific name | Panthera uncia |
| Nickname | Ghost of the mountains |
| Range countries | 12 countries including India, Nepal, China, Mongolia |
| IUCN status | Vulnerable |
| CITES listing | Appendix I |
| Indian law protection | Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, Schedule I |
| Major project | Project Snow Leopard, launched in 2009 |
| Key Indian habitat | Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim |
| Global program | Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program |
