The Tamil Nadu government has notified Nagamalai Hillock in Erode district, spanning 32.22 hectares, as the State’s fourth Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS), a move aimed at conserving its rich ecological and cultural heritage.The notification, issued under Section 37(1) of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, was announced by Ms. Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary of the Environment, Climate Change and Forest Department. She said the designation reinforces Tamil Nadu’s leadership in biodiversity conservation and sustainable heritage management.
Nagamalai Hillock, an ecological hotspot, provides habitat to migratory and resident birds, aquatic species, and diverse wetland ecosystems. Surveys, including the Tamil Nadu Synchronized Bird Census (2024), recorded 138 plant species, 118 bird species (30 migratory, 88 resident), seven mammals, 11 reptiles, five spiders, and 71 insects. Flagship species include the Greater Spotted Eagle, Pallid Harrier, and Benelli’s Eagle.
The BHS status also acknowledges the hillock’s archaeological and cultural significance. Unlike strict conservation zones, the designation does not restrict traditional practices by local communities but encourages sustainable livelihoods alongside ecological protection.
Nagamalai Hillock joins Arittapatti (Nov 2022), Kasampatti (Mar 2025), and Elathur Lake (Aug 2025) as Tamil Nadu’s recognized Biodiversity Heritage Sites. The state continues to lead India in conservation initiatives, with 20 Ramsar sites, dedicated funds for endangered species, and measures to safeguard ecologically sensitive areas.