According to a recent report, Chokramudi Hills (Kerala), where Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) bloomed in 2014, is facing a serious threat of encroachment ahead of the next anticipated flowering season in 2026.
- A large-scale illegal constructions upstream of Bison Valley in Idukki have led to the destruction of thousands of Neelakurinji plants.
- The last major bloom was in 2014, but the destruction of Neelakurinji plants on Chokramudi hills will likely affect the next flowering season.
- Chokramudi is one of the major areas outside Eravikulam National Park (ENP) in Munnar known for large-scale Neelakurinji blooms.
- In January 2023, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change listed Neelakurinji under Schedule III of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. This designation provides legal protection to the species, and uprooting or destroying these plants is now punishable by a fine of ₹25,000 and up to three years of imprisonment.
