At least 74 tigers have died in the country since January — most deaths were due to poaching, while several others are shrouded in mystery.

According to sources, of the 49 tiger reserves in the country, NTCA has released funds to only six under the centrally-sponsored scheme for 'Project Tiger'.

A senior NTCA official from Delhi said, "There is no delay... Till now 17 reserves have been allocated money." But, of these 17 reserves, not one is in Maharashtra though proposals were sent to NTCA in March-April. Last year, NTCA released funds in May.

The wildlife wing has sought Rs 154.41 crore for the six reserves in the state. Wildlife officials said non-payment of salary to van majoors and Special Tiger Protection Force personnel will hit protection, especially when poaching threat increases during monsoon.

But NTCA officials say field directors can utilize funds from the TCF till NTCA grant is released.

Shree Bhagwan, state's principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), said, "No field director has apprised me about it. We are expected to get more funds this time." Since last year, funds are released by the Centre and the state on a 60:40 ratio. Unless NTCA releases funds, the state doesn't follow suit. Delay in NTCA funds would mean delay in state's share too.