Blackbuck population in IIT Madras rises from 12 to 77 in 8 years

IIT Madras reported a sharp rise in the population of blackbuck on the campus, from just 12 in 2018 to 77 in 2026. The elimination and management of stray dogs and the re-establishment of open grasslands helped to restore the animal's habitat and natural environment. The species is under the protection of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.