Tamil Nadu Unveils India's Pioneering Slender Loris Conservation Hub in Dindigul
In a landmark move for wildlife preservation, the Tamil Nadu government has officially launched India's inaugural state-of-the-art Slender Loris Conservation Centre, situated in Ayyalur within the Dindigul district. This significant initiative, inaugurated on Saturday by Minister R S Raja Kannappan, represents a crucial step forward in safeguarding the endangered insectivorous primate, commonly known as Devangu, which thrives exclusively in tree canopies.
A Comprehensive Facility for Conservation and Community Engagement
The newly established centre, constructed at a cost of ₹16.05 crore, is designed to serve multiple purposes beyond mere protection. It aims to deepen scientific research into the ecology of the slender loris, an elusive and nocturnal species often threatened by habitat destruction and superstitious beliefs. By functioning as a 'living laboratory,' the facility will enable experts to study the primate's behavior in detail, contributing to more effective conservation strategies.
Additionally, the centre is poised to promote responsible eco-tourism, offering visitors an immersive experience through its dedicated communication centre and interactive visitor centre. Features include a children's play area, an adventure zone, and a curated trek path, all tailored to educate and engage the public. To enhance accessibility, the government has launched an official website (www.slenderloriscentre.com) and a mobile app, providing real-time updates on conservation efforts and visitor amenities.
Supporting Local Communities and Environmental Sustainability
Beyond conservation, the project emphasizes socio-economic benefits by creating local employment opportunities and reducing community dependence on forest resources through sustainable alternatives. This aligns with the broader vision of fostering a new generation of eco-warriors, as highlighted by officials during the inauguration. The event saw participation from key figures such as Additional Chief Secretary Supriya Sahu and Dindigul District Collector S Saravanan, who led a lamp-lighting ceremony to mark the occasion.
The establishment of this centre follows Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's historic announcement under Rule 110 in the state assembly, which led to the notification of 11,806.56 hectares across Dindigul and Karur districts as the "Kadavur Slender Loris Sanctuary." Environmentalists and wildlife experts, including Dr. Mewa Singh from the University of Mysore and Dr. Sindhu Radhakrishna from the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), praised the initiative as a vital tool for biodiversity preservation.
The government has urged public support for this endeavor, noting that the centre is now fully operational and ready to welcome students and tourists alike. This development underscores Tamil Nadu's commitment to balancing ecological protection with community welfare, setting a precedent for conservation efforts across India.
