First-Ever Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India Released.

Environment | Dated: 25 Jan 2026

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change released the report of the first-ever Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI). The report estimates the snow leopard population in India at 718. The assessment was conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • Ladakh has the highest number of snow leopards (477), followed by Uttarakhand (124).
  • The snow leopard is the state animal of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.
  • It is listed as "Vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • Report: SPAI.
  • Total Count: 718.
  • Top Region: Ladakh.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

According to the first SPAI report, which region in India has the highest population of snow leopards?

Correct Answer: Ladakh

🚀 Quick Recap:

About Snow Leopard

  • Scientific Name – Panthera uncia
  • Habitat – Himalayas