The Soliga tribal community has become a vital player in the increasing tiger population in Karnataka’s Biligirirangana Hills (BRT) Tiger Reserve. Their strong bond with the forest, traditional conservation practices, and acknowledgment of their rights to the land have greatly aided in protecting wildlife in the area. On February 23, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised their contributions during the 119th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, emphasizing how the Soligas and tigers live together with little conflict. This recognition has drawn national attention to the crucial role of indigenous communities in conservation efforts.
How Did the Soliga Tribe Gain Recognition for Forest Rights?
The Soligas are a tribal community of about 40,000 individuals who primarily reside in the BR Hills region of Chamarajanagar district. For many years, conservation policies limited their traditional lifestyle, but in 2011, they made history by becoming the first tribal group in India to secure forest land rights within a tiger reserve. This significant achievement enabled them to uphold their time-honored sustainable practices, such as gathering non-timber forest products (NTFP), preserving biodiversity, and safeguarding wildlife. Their harmonious relationship with the forest ecosystem has proven advantageous for both environmental health and conservation initiatives.
How Has the Tiger Population Increased in BRT Tiger Reserve?
The recognition of Soliga forest rights has had a significant impact on tiger conservation. According to BRT Tiger Reserve Director BS Shripati, the tiger population has increased from just 8-10 tigers a few years ago to around 50 today. This growth is attributed to the Soligas’ traditional knowledge of the forest, which helps in preventing poaching, reducing human-wildlife conflict, and maintaining habitat balance. Their constant presence in the forest acts as a natural safeguard, ensuring that illegal activities like deforestation and wildlife trafficking do not occur.
