In the 119th edition of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Soliga Tribe of the Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve for their significant role in tiger conservation. The recognition underscores the importance of community-led conservation initiatives in preserving India’s rich biodiversity and wildlife heritage.
The tiger population in BRT Tiger Reserve has steadily increased, and much of the credit goes to Soligas, who worship tigers and practice sustainable coexistence with nature.
About the Soliga Tribe
Location & Population:
- The Soliga Tribe is an indigenous forest-dwelling community primarily found in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, particularly in the Biligiri Rangana Hills & Male Mahadeshwara Hills.
- Karnataka has around 40,000 Soligas, with many residing in Chamarajanagar district’s BR Hills region.
Name Origin & Cultural Beliefs:
- “Soliga” means “Children of Bamboo”, reflecting their deep-rooted connection with nature.
- They worship not just tigers but all animals, considering them sacred. The tiger, called “Dodda Nayi” (Big Dog), has a dedicated temple in their community.
Living Conditions & Conservation Practices:
- Soligas live in harmony with nature, understanding animal behavior and avoiding conflicts.
- When collecting forest produce, they leave one-fourth to one-third behind for wildlife, showcasing their sustainable harvesting practices.
Historical Significance:
- The Soliga tribe was the first tribal community inside a Tiger Reserve to secure forest rights legally (2011 court judgment).
Language & Culture
- Language: The Soligas speak Sholaga, a Dravidian language, and are also fluent in Kannada and Tamil.
- Housing: They live in small, single-room bamboo and mud huts.
- Traditions: They practice Hindu customs along with animism and naturism. They create utility products from nature, such as the ‘Jottai’ (leaf cup).
Economy & Livelihood
Primary Occupation:
- Depend on shifting cultivation and collection of minor forest produce.
- Honey collection is an essential part of their economy and diet.
Biodiversity-Based Sustenance:
- Their food sources come from the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve
Location: Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka.
Geographical Significance:
- Located between the Western and Eastern Ghats.
- Named after “BILIGIRI” (white rocky cliff) and the Rangaswamy Temple (dedicated to Lord Vishnu).
Protected Status:
- Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2011.
- Covers an area of 574.82 sq.km.
Tiger Conservation Success:
- The tiger population has increased from 8-10 to nearly 50 in recent years.
- The Soliga community plays a crucial role in conservation, as their cultural beliefs align with environmental protection.
Vegetation:
- Dominated by dry deciduous forests, with patches of moist deciduous, semi-evergreen, evergreen, and shola forests.
- Flora: Includes Anogeissus latifolia, Dalbergia paniculata, Terminalia alata, Terminalia bellirica, and Terminalia paniculata.
Fauna:
- Mammals: Tigers, elephants, leopards, wild dogs, bison, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, four-horned antelope, sloth bears, wild boars.
- Primates: Common langurs, bonnet macaques.
- Reptiles & Birds: Diverse species inhabiting the region.
Significance of Soliga Tribe in Conservation
- Their deep spiritual connection with nature ensures sustainable wildlife conservation.
- They serve as custodians of the forest, contributing to the success of tiger conservation in the BRT Tiger Reserve.
- The Soligas’ unique coexistence model highlights how traditional indigenous knowledge can aid modern conservation efforts.