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Odisha lays foundation for new eco-tourism projects to strengthen wildlife conservation

Bhubaneswar, Oct 3 (UNI) Odisha on Saturday laid the foundation stones for a series of eco-tourism and wildlife-related initiatives aimed at strengthening conservation, promoting scientific research, enhancing ecological awareness and encouraging responsible tourism across the State.
The foundation stones were laid virtually during the State-level Wildlife Week Celebration-2026 for projects at Rajhans in Chilika Wildlife Division, Rani Duduma in Koraput Forest Division, Badmul in Mahanadi Wildlife Division and Pentha in Rajnagar Wildlife Division, besides new facilities at Nandankanan Zoological Park.
Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia, who attended the celebration, said Odisha had achieved several significant milestones in wildlife conservation over the past two years.
He attributed the progress to the adoption of scientific approaches, use of modern technology, stronger administrative measures and, most importantly, the dedicated efforts of forest personnel and local communities.
An achievement video showcasing the work of the Wildlife Wing and a visual presentation highlighting the week-long wildlife awareness activities organised across the State were screened at the event.
A major highlight of the celebration was the launch of CM-GROW (Chief Minister’s Grant for Research on Odisha’s Wildlife), an initiative aimed at promoting wildlife research and strengthening the scientific foundation for conservation efforts in the State.
The programme also witnessed the release of coloured postcards and special covers and the online inauguration of several day-visit eco-tourism destinations across Odisha.
These included Peacock Valley and Nageswar Dam in Chandaka Wildlife Division, destinations in Similipal North Wildlife Division, Karakhol in Chilika Wildlife Division, Sambalpur Zoo and visitor amenities in Hirakud Wildlife Division.
Several important publications and technical documents were also released on the occasion, including “Wildlife Odisha – 2026,” “The Long Walk to Similipal,” “Explore Odisha,” “Orchid Genera of Odisha in Pictures,” “Mahanadi re Ghadial ra Jibani,” “Tracking the Ocean Wanderers,” and “Two Flamingos Two Journeys.”
The publications document Odisha’s rich biodiversity, wildlife research, eco-tourism potential and satellite telemetry studies of key species, providing insights into the State’s conservation efforts and ecological wealth.
The celebration also included the distribution of sanction orders and cheques to families whose houses were completely damaged by wildlife, reaffirming the State’s commitment to supporting communities affected by human-wildlife interactions.
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