Striped Tiger Declared State Butterfly of Chandigarh | 22 Jan 2026

Why in News? 

The State Board of Wildlife (SBWL) of Chandigarh has officially declared the Striped Tiger Butterfly as the State Butterfly of the Union Territory, marking a significant step in biodiversity recognition and wildlife conservation awareness. 

Key Points: 

• Selection Process and Criteria:The selection was a year-long initiative by the Department of Forest and Wildlife to choose an emblem for the city's natural heritage.  
• Public Participation: The Striped Tiger was chosen through an online public voting process, where it secured about 54% of the total votes. 
  • Final Contenders: It outcompeted three other shortlisted species: the Blue Tiger, the Plain Tiger, and the Jezebel. 
• Reason for Selection: Chosen for its striking appearance and resilience, it is found abundantly across the Union Territory, including the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary and Sector 26 Butterfly Park. 
• Key Facts Striped Tiger Butterfly:The butterfly features brilliant tawny-orange wings with bold black stripes, resembling a tiger. 
  • Defense Mechanism: It is known to be unpalatable (distasteful) to predators, a characteristic similar to the American Monarch butterfly. 
  • Status: It is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. 
• Conservation Awareness: The declaration aims to promote biodiversity conservation and environmental awareness among residents and students. 
• New Wildlife Learning Centre: Along with the declaration, the Administrator directed the establishment of a new Wildlife Learning Centre (such as a Biological Park or enclosure) to boost local wildlife protection efforts.