Introduction:
The Project Nilgiri Tahr, is an endangered mountain ungulate endemic to the Western Ghats of southern India. Recognizing its ecological and cultural significance, the Government of Tamil Nadu launched Project Nilgiri Tahr in 2023-the first species-specific conservation initiative of its kind in India. With recent surveys showing a steady rise in population, the project has emerged as a significant model for wildlife recovery through habitat restoration, scientific monitoring, and community participation.
Why is it in the news?
The third synchronized survey (April 2026) showed a steady recovery in the Nilgiri Tahr population in Tamil Nadu. The population increased to 1,364 individuals, a 4.68% rise compared to 2025.
- Officially launched on: 12 October 2023(by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin).
First announced in the Tamil Nadu Budget 2022–23.
- Nodal Department: Environment, Climate Change and Forests Department, Government of Tamil Nadu.
Key Details About Nilgiri Tahr:
- Scientific Name: Nilgiritragus hylocrius (earlier called Hemitragus hylocrius).
- Locally known as: Varai Aadu (Mountain Goat).
Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Endangered
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (highest level of protection)
- Endemism: The only mountain ungulate (hoofed animal) found in Southern India.
Habitat and Distribution:
- Endemic Region: Found only in the Southern Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
- Preferred Habitat: High-altitude montane grasslands mixed with shola forests (shola-grassland mosaics).
Altitude range: 1,200–2,600 meters.
- Key Habitats:
Eravikulam National Park – largest surviving population
Anamalai Hills
Mukurthi National Park
Major Threats:
- Habitat Fragmentation:
- Deforestation.
- Expansion of tea and coffee estates.
- Spread of invasive plantations such as wattle and eucalyptus.
- These factors isolate Tahr populations into small, disconnected groups.
2. Anthropogenic Pressures:
- Construction of hydroelectric projects.
- Infrastructure development in upper Western Ghats regions.
3. Livestock Competition and Disease:
- Competition for grazing within domestic livestock.
- Risk of diseases such as brucellosis.
4. Poaching:
- Illegal hunting for meat and skin still occurs occasionally despite a major decline since the 1970s.
Why is the Nilgiri Tahr Important?
- Keystone Grazer
- Feeds on around 184 plant species.
- Helps in maintaining nutrient cycling and healthy high-altitude ecosystems.
- Water Security
- Protects shola-grassland ecosystems, which act as important water catchments.
- Supports major perennial rivers of Southern India.
Cultural Significance:
Mentioned in ancient Sangam Tamil literature over 2,000 years old.
Referenced in Silappatikaram and Sivaka Chintamani.
Important Prelims Facts:
- Official State Animal of Tamil Nadu.
- Nilgiri Tahr Day: Observed on 7 October.
- Honors Dr. E.R.C. Davidar, who conducted one of the first scientific studies on the species in 1975.
- Project Outlay: India’s first species-specific conservation project.
Budget: ₹25.14 crore for 2022–2027.
- Genome sequencing revealed that the Nilgiri Tahr is genetically closer to sheep than goats, despite being called a mountain goat.
- Saddlebacks: Adult males develop a dark patch on their backs. Hence, they are often called “Saddlebacks.”
Way Forward:
1. Radio-Telemetry Tracking:
- Greater use of radio collars and GPS tracking.
- Monitoring through the Varudai mobile app to track movement, behaviour, and health.
2. Restoring Wildlife Corridors:
- Removal of invasive species.
- Reconnecting fragmented habitats to improve genetic diversity through interbreeding.
3. Reintroduction Programmes:
- Reintroducing the species into suitable areas where it earlier existed.
- Creating new and sustainable populations.
4. Community Participation:
- Promoting regulated eco-tourism.
- Generating local livelihoods and encouraging community-led conservation.
Conclusion:
Project Nilgiri Tahr marks a shift from simple protection to active species recovery. Through modern technology, habitat restoration, corridor connectivity and community participation, the project aims to improve the population of the Endangered Nilgiri Tahr while protecting the ecological health of the Western Ghats.
