- A new documentary, ‘Nilgiris – A Shared Wilderness’, has been released to raise awareness about India’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Nilgiris.
- The Nilgiri Biosphere spans 5,500 sq. km across Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, encompassing diverse flora and fauna, including rare species.
- Increasing human activity, tourism, and agriculture have impacted this region, necessitating conservation efforts.
- The Nilgiris host unique species like the Nilgiri tahr and star-eyed bush frog, alongside medicinal plants used by indigenous tribes.
- Conservation initiatives, like Clean Coonoor’s Circular Economy and the Keystone Foundation’s Climate Resilience Work, focus on waste management and indigenous support.
- Increasing wildlife sightings, like leopards, Indian gaur, and sloth bears in human habitat.
- Effective conservation requires involvement from communities (samaaj), markets (bazaar), and government (sarkaar).
| Species | Nilgiri Tahr | Star-eyed Bush Frog |
| Scientific Name | Nilgiritragus hylocrius | Raorchestes signatus |
| Description | Mountain ungulate with curved horns adapted to rugged terrain | Small frog with “star-like” eye pattern, arboreal |
| Role in Ecosystem | Helps maintain grassland vegetation balance | Controls insect population |
| IUCN Status | Endangered | Endangered |
Dig Deeper: Locate on UNESCO recognised Biosphere Reserves in India.
