MoEFCC Requests NGT to Mandate Annual Conservation Plans for Neelakurinji

Thiruvananthapuram, India Aug 26, 2026 ALN: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has taken a proactive step in addressing the conservation of the Neelakurinji, scientifically known as Strobilanthes kunthiana, by requesting the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to mandate the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to submit annual operational plans that include a comprehensive conservation action strategy for this endemic shrub. Neelakurinji is renowned for its unique blooming cycle, which occurs once every 12 years, resulting in spectacular displays of violet flowers across the Western Ghats. This phenomenon attracts numerous tourists and nature enthusiasts, highlighting the ecological and cultural significance of the species.

The urgency of this request comes in light of a report that has indicated a worrying trend: Neelakurinji is becoming a threatened species. The NGT, which is responsible for handling environmental disputes and issues in India, has taken suo motu cognizance of this situation, emphasizing the need for immediate action to protect this iconic plant. The report that prompted the tribunal’s attention was published in The Hindu, a prominent Indian newspaper, underscoring the growing concern among environmentalists regarding the survival of Neelakurinji.

Historically, records spanning from 1832 to 2018 document the presence of Neelakurinji across 34 localities within 14 ecoregions. These ecoregions include five major landscapes: Brahmagiri, Nilgiri, Palani-Kodaikanal, Anamalai, Munnar-Idukki, and Yercaud-Shevaroys, which are crucial for the species’ survival. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are known for their rich biodiversity and are home to many endemic species, making the conservation of Neelakurinji not just a local issue, but a matter of national importance.

The Principal Bench of the NGT has reviewed a conservation plan proposed by the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI). This plan has identified several threats to Neelakurinji, including unregulated tourism and infrastructure development, which have exacerbated the pressures on its habitat. The rapid increase in tourism activities, while beneficial for local economies, poses a significant risk to the delicate ecosystems where Neelakurinji thrives. The trampling of vegetation, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species are just a few of the challenges that could lead to the decline of this endemic shrub.

In response to these challenges, the MoEFCC has emphasized that the implementation of the conservation action plan should primarily be the responsibility of the state governments. These states are urged to incorporate the action plans into their annual operational plans under the centrally-sponsored scheme ‘Development of Wildlife Habitats.’ This scheme aims to enhance the conservation and management of protected areas, wildlife, and the recovery of critically endangered species. The Ministry has called upon the Principal Bench to ensure that the states collaborate with the State Biodiversity Boards to effectively execute these conservation strategies.

The MoEFCC plays a crucial role as a facilitating and funding agency, providing not only technical guidance but also financial assistance to the states and union territories for wildlife conservation and habitat management. In the context of the financial support provided under the ‘Development of Wildlife Habitats’ project, the Ministry reported that ₹5.9 crore was allocated in the Financial Year 2025-26, and ₹9.09 crore was disbursed in the previous year, 2024-25. These funds are essential for supporting various conservation initiatives, including those aimed at protecting Neelakurinji.

JNTBGRI Report

The report from JNTBGRI outlines a detailed conservation action plan that is species-specific, integrating the life-cycle biology and habitat requirements of Neelakurinji into its recommendations. Among the key suggestions are the establishment of long-term ecological monitoring plots across all major landscapes to track population dynamics and assess regeneration success. This monitoring is critical for understanding the health of Neelakurinji populations and for making informed decisions about conservation strategies.

Another significant recommendation is the restoration of degraded montane grasslands, which involves the phased removal of invasive alien species that threaten the native flora. The reintroduction of native plant species is also emphasized, as it can help restore the ecological balance in these habitats. Additionally, the report advocates for the regulation of tourism through carrying capacity assessments, the creation of designated pathways for visitors, and strict enforcement measures during the flowering seasons of Neelakurinji. These actions are essential to mitigate the impact of human activities on this sensitive species and its habitat.

The implications of these conservation efforts extend beyond the survival of Neelakurinji itself. The plant plays a vital role in the ecosystem of the Western Ghats, contributing to soil stability and providing habitat for various species. Moreover, the blooming of Neelakurinji has significant cultural and economic implications, as it attracts tourists and nature lovers, thereby supporting local communities. Therefore, the successful implementation of a comprehensive conservation plan not only aims to protect a threatened species but also seeks to balance ecological integrity with socio-economic development.

In conclusion, the MoEFCC's request to the NGT represents a critical step in the ongoing efforts to conserve Neelakurinji. By mandating annual conservation plans from the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, the Ministry aims to ensure that this unique shrub receives the protection it requires to thrive in its natural habitat. The collaborative approach involving state governments, biodiversity boards, and research institutions is essential for the effective conservation of Neelakurinji and the preservation of the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats.