Jaipur: Rajasthan’stiger population has increased to 149 across its five tiger reserves, with Ranthambore housing 72 of them, officials said on the eve of International Tiger Day. Prasad said Ranthambore Tiger Reserve continues to have the state’s largest tiger population, with 72 tigers, tigresses and cubs, up from 66 last year. Experts noted that about two decades ago Rajasthan’s tiger population had declined to just 18-20 animals, placing the species at serious risk in the state. Of the state’s total tiger population of 149, around 96 are adult tigers and tigresses, while the remainder are cubs. Forest Department officials said Ranthambore is among India’s most successful tiger reserves in terms of breeding and cub survival.