---
title: "Population Surge Points to New Nilgiri Tahr Stronghold in Idukki Range"
url: https://projectchintan.com/article/population-surge-points-to-new-nilgiri-tahr-stronghold-in-idukki-range-mj4gt
publisher: Project Chintan
author: Project Chintan Newsroom
section: India
published: 2026-07-30T13:54:07.464Z
modified: 2026-07-30T15:12:16.161Z
language: en-IN
---

# Population Surge Points to New Nilgiri Tahr Stronghold in Idukki Range

The Nilgiri tahr population at Varayattumudy has tripled since 2022 following targeted ecological restoration efforts. Forest officials suggest the area now constitutes a vital habitat corridor for the endangered species outside of Eravikulam National Park.

## Key takeaways

- The Nilgiri tahr population in the Adimaly forest range grew from 50 to an estimated 150 individuals in just four years.
- Removal of exotic plant species across 22.5 hectares of grassland vastly improved food sources for the endangered ungulates.
- A new eco-tourism trekking proposal at Mainappara seeks to balance wildlife protection with tribal livelihood support.
- Varayattumudy sits at 986 meters, offering a wind-swept grassland and shola forest environment similar to Eravikulam National Park.

## Restoration Drives Threefold Population Increase
 

The Varayattumudy hills, managed under the Adimaly forest range, have witnessed a significant demographic shift in the endangered Nilgiri tahr population. Official census data reveals that the number of tahrs has jumped to approximately 150 individuals, a sharp rise from the 50 recorded in 2022. During recent field observations, forest teams physically identified nearly 100 of these ungulates on the hillsides. 

This surge correlates directly with an extensive eco-restoration initiative led by the Forest Department. Range Officer P.C. Rajan confirmed that workers cleared exotic invasive plants from 22.5 hectares of land, allowing native grasslands to recover. By removing non-native vegetation, the department significantly improved natural forage availability, which officials cite as the primary driver for the population growth. An additional 50 hectares are slated for similar restoration to further stabilize the food supply. 

## Topographic and Climatic Advantages
 

Standing at an elevation of 986 meters, the Varayattumudy cliff provides a specific microclimate that mirrors the environment of the well-known Eravikulam National Park. The territory is defined by high-altitude grasslands, shola forests, and a consistently windy climate. Deputy Range Officer Manoj T. Mathew noted that the steep terrain and natural rock holes provide an ideal defensive landscape for the species. 

The broader ecological corridor for the species encompasses several interconnected regions, including: - Panniyumpuliymala - Aranamudi - Muthanmudi - Varayattumudy hills - Neriamangalam range 

## Security Measures and Tribal Integration
 

As the tahr population expands, the department has intensified surveillance to mitigate poaching and habitat disturbance. The conservation strategy integrates three local tribal settlements: Chinnappara, Thalanirappan, and Choorakkettan. A dedicated Vana Samrakshana Samithi (VSS) has been established at Chinnapparakkudy to formalize community involvement in forest protection. 

To harmonize conservation with local economic needs, authorities have proposed a sustainable eco-tourism trekking project at Mainappara. This program aims to provide livelihood opportunities for the resident tribal communities while ensuring the long-term protection of the high-altitude habitat.

Source: The Hindu — National

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Canonical: https://projectchintan.com/article/population-surge-points-to-new-nilgiri-tahr-stronghold-in-idukki-range-mj4gt
Reported from: The Hindu — National