The Indian Supreme Court's temporary injunction against tourism in core areas of tiger reserves could place the animals at greater risk of poaching if it becomes permanent, by reducing revenue for park management (Nature 488, 10; 2012). The injunction has now been extended until 27 September.

Most of the reserves with the highest numbers of tigers and tourists are in the state of Madhya Pradesh. In 2010–11, the state's 35 parks received US$17.1 million from government sources. Five tiger reserves generated most of the $2.8 million obtained from tourism. In 2011–12, Bandhavgarh reserve received $1.2 million in tourist revenue and almost the same amount from government sources. Tourism therefore yields 25–50% of tiger conservation funds in Madhya Pradesh, safeguarding up to 130 tigers.

Different management strategies would be more effective in overcoming conservation concerns stemming from disruptive tourist behaviour.