Tamil Nadu Designates Kasampatty as Biodiversity Heritage Site

The Tamil Nadu government has declared Kasampatty (Veera Kovil) sacred grove in Dindigul district as a Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS), the second in the state after Arittapatti. Spanning 4.97 hectares near Alagarmalai Reserve Forest, it acts as a vital green bridge, supporting biodiversity and local traditions. The grove boasts 48 plant species, 22 shrubs, 21 lianas, and 29 herbs, along with diverse fauna including 12 bird species. It also contains rare plant species like Ixora parviflora and Canthium dicocum, crucial for local religious practices. The designation aims to protect its ecological and cultural significance through conservation measures rooted in traditional knowledge.