Third Synchronized Nilgiri Tahr Survey 2026: Technology-Driven Population Count

Project Nilgiri Tahr: Monitoring Tamil Nadu’s State Animal

Tamil Nadu successfully conducted the third synchronized Nilgiri Tahr survey in late April and early May 2026. This comprehensive exercise, part of 'Project Nilgiri Tahr,' was carried out in collaboration with the Kerala Forest Department to ensure a scientifically accurate population count across the Western Ghats.

Advanced Monitoring with 'Varudai' App

• Technological Innovation: For the first time, a dedicated mobile application named 'Varudai' was used for real-time data collection, GPS tracking, and instant reporting. The name is derived from ancient Sangam literature where the animal was referred to as 'Varudai'.


• Survey Scope: The survey covered an extensive distance of 3,100 km from Kanniyakumari to Gudalur, encompassing 14 forest divisions and 177 survey blocks.


• Methods: Field staff used a combination of the 'count-bound method' and the 'double observer method' to avoid double-counting and minimize errors.

Population Trends

Previous synchronized surveys recorded 1,031 Nilgiri Tahr in 2024 and 1,303 in 2025. The steady growth indicates successful habitat recolonisation and restoration under the state's conservation policies. For TNPSC aspirants, this is a crucial update for "Tamil Nadu Geography" and "State Environment Policy," highlighting the protection of the Endangered mountain ungulate.