Population Growth in Tamil Nadu
Rising Nilgiri Tahr Population in Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu has recorded an estimated 1,303 Nilgiri Tahr in its second annual synchronised population survey. This marks a significant increase from 1,031 individuals documented in 2024. The survey covered 177 blocks, which is 36 more than the previous year.
Key Habitats
The Grass Hills National Park and Mukurthi National Park remain the primary strongholds for the species. Grass Hills recorded 334 Tahrs, compared to 276 in 2024. Mukurthi National Park saw 282 individuals, up from 203 last year.
Migration Towards Kerala
Around 155 Nilgiri Tahr are part of a transit population moving towards Eravikulam National Park in Kerala. This cross-border movement highlights the importance of coordinated conservation between Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Significance of the Survey
The synchronised survey ensures accurate population estimates by conducting simultaneous counts across multiple locations. This method reduces the possibility of double counting, especially for migratory groups.
Static GK fact: The Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius) is the state animal of Tamil Nadu and is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Conservation Importance
Nilgiri Tahr populations have been under threat due to habitat loss, poaching, and fragmentation. The rise in numbers is an encouraging sign for biodiversity conservation in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Static GK tip: The Western Ghats stretch across six Indian states — Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, and Gujarat — and are one of the eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity in the world.
Government and Community Efforts
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has intensified anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration, and public awareness programs. Community participation, especially in eco-sensitive zones, has played a key role in safeguarding the species.
Future Outlook
Experts stress the need for habitat connectivity, particularly between Mukurthi, Grass Hills, and Eravikulam, to support genetic diversity and reduce isolation of sub-populations. Climate change monitoring is also essential as changing rainfall and temperature patterns can affect grassland ecosystems.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Rising Nilgiri Tahr Population in Tamil Nadu:
| Fact | Detail |
| Estimated Nilgiri Tahr population in Tamil Nadu (2025) | 1,303 |
| Previous year’s population | 1,031 |
| Increase in surveyed blocks | 36 more than 2024 |
| Grass Hills National Park population | 334 |
| Mukurthi National Park population | 282 |
| Transit population towards Eravikulam National Park | 155 |
| State animal of Tamil Nadu | Nilgiri Tahr |
| IUCN status | Endangered |
| Primary threats | Habitat loss, poaching, fragmentation |
| UNESCO recognition | Western Ghats as World Heritage Site |
