Why in News? 

Recently, in Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister of India acknowledged the Soliga tribal community of the BRT Tiger Reserve, commending their significant role in tiger conservation. 

About  

• The Soliga are an indigenous, forest-dwelling community primarily found in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. 
• The name "Soliga" translates to "children of bamboo", symbolizing their deep connection with nature and their belief in having emerged from it. 
• They inhabit the forested regions surrounding the Biligiri Rangana Hills and Male Mahadeshwara Hills. 
• In 2011, the Soligas became the first tribal community residing within a tiger reserve to have their forest rights legally recognized by a court. 

 Language & Lifestyle 

• The Soligas speak Sholaga, a Dravidian language, along with Kannada and Tamil. 
• Their homes are typically single-room huts constructed from bamboo and mud. 
• Known for their sustainable living practices, they craft unique utility items from natural materials, such as the ‘jottai’, a cup made from leaves. 

 Beliefs & Religion: While following certain Hindu traditions, the Soliga people also practice naturism and animism, emphasizing a deep spiritual connection with nature. 

 Economy & Livelihood 

• Traditionally, their economy revolves around shifting cultivation and the collection of minor forest produce. 
• Honey plays a vital role in their diet, and they continue to forage much of their food from the rich biodiversity of the Ghats.