In a move to safeguard the Nilgiri Tahr, Tamil Nadu’s state animal, Chief Minister M K Stalin launched ‘The Nilgiri Tahr’ project. The launch ceremony took place at the secretariat in Chennai, and it included the distribution of educational kits to school students to raise awareness about the Nilgiri Tahr. This initiative is aimed at protecting the ecological and cultural significance of the state animal. It was declared as a state animal due to its prominence in Sangam Tamil Literature, and the project focuses on preserving this unique species.
The Objectives of ‘The Nilgiri Tahr’ Project
The project, initiated by a government order in December, has several key objectives:
- Developing a comprehensive understanding of Nilgiri Tahr population, distribution, and ecology.
- Reintroducing Nilgiri Tahr to their historical habitats.
- Addressing immediate threats to the Nilgiri Tahr population.
Significance of Nilgiri Tahr Day
To commemorate Dr. E R C Davidar’s contributions to Nilgiri Tahr research, October 7 is now celebrated as Nilgiri Tahr Day. Dr. Davidar played a pioneering role in studying Nilgiri Tahr in 1975.
Focus Areas of the Project
With a budget of Rs 25 crore, the project includes a range of activities:
- Bi-annual synchronized surveys across various divisions.
- Tranquilization, collaring, and monitoring of Nilgiri Tahrs.
- Reintroduction and monitoring of Nilgiri Tahr.
- Restoration of shola grasslands in the Upper Bhavani region of the Nilgiris.
- Implementation of eco-tourism programs, among other initiatives.
The forest department has set up an office in Coimbatore and appointed a full-time project director. Additionally, a senior scientist, assisted by four senior research fellows, has been appointed to oversee various project activities.
Conservation Areas
Four regions within Tamil Nadu’s Western Ghats have been selected for the ‘The Nilgiri Tahr’ project. These areas are Mukurthi National Park, Analami grassland area, Megamalai, and Agasthiar Malai. These regions are critical for the conservation of the Nilgiri Tahr due to the unique characteristics of the grasslands that provide a suitable habitat for these mountain goats.
The launch of ‘The Nilgiri Tahr’ project underscores the commitment of Tamil Nadu to protect its state animal and preserve the region’s unique ecological and cultural heritage. This endeavor aims to safeguard the Nilgiri Tahr and their habitat, ensuring that this iconic species remains an integral part of Tamil Nadu’s natural heritage.