This large, soft-furred rat is only known from Sinhgarh, a small plateau of about one square km at 1,270 m altitude in southwestern India. It has not been found during surveys of other nearby areas. The species has been reported occurring in tropical and subtropical dry deciduous forests and tropical scrub. Listed as Critically Endangered (B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii)) on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species

Habitat loss, overgrazing of vegetation and disturbance from tourism (the area contains important archaeological sites).

It is listed in the Schedule V (considered as vermin) of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. It is not known from any protected areas. However, no developmental activities are permitted near the type locality since it belongs to the Ministry of Defence and the area has historical and archaeological significance. Research to monitor the population numbers, trend, habitat status, biology and ecology is urgently needed. This species is recommended for an urgent ex situ programme for insurance purposes due to its very restricted distribution and the threat to its habitat.

Little is known about the ecology of this species. Its relative, M. meltada, is nocturnal, spending the days in shelters which may include short burrows, stone heaps and the abandoned burrows of other rodents. M. kondana has been found to occupy bushy scrub and sometimes found to build nests. It has been observed to use burrows. Species in the genus Millardia are known as Asian soft-furred rats or cutch rats. There are four species, all of which are restricted to the Indian subcontinent (Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka and Nepal). This species is unique in the genus in possessing six well-developed planter pads. It has larger external and cranial measurements than its congeners, and proportionately smaller ears and hind feet.