Simlipal to Soon Be Declared a National Park: Odisha Government Moves Forward with Protection and Development Plans

Bhubaneswar, April 17: In a significant move for environmental conservation and tribal welfare, Odisha’s Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Minister, Ganeshram Singhkhuntia, announced that Simlipal is set to be granted the status of a National Park. This declaration is part of the Odisha government’s efforts to preserve the region’s rich biodiversity and promote sustainable development for local communities.

Speaking at a high-level meeting, Singhkhuntia emphasized the unique ecological value of Simlipal, which is home to diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and over 300 species of birds. It also boasts 1,076 species of flowering plants, 96 species of orchids, and a range of reptiles and amphibians. He highlighted that Simlipal has brought both pride to the state and national recognition for its biodiversity.

To support the park’s development, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has allocated Rs 50 crore in the state budget for the implementation of the Simlipal scheme. The funds will focus on enhancing environmental conservation efforts, addressing challenges such as deforestation, and improving the lives of local Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes communities who face difficulties accessing quality education and healthcare.

Singhkhuntia shared that the government is committed to sustainable management of Simlipal’s natural resources and biodiversity. A core initiative, the Aama Simlipal Yojana, aims to boost economic upliftment for tribal communities, reduce human-animal conflict, and ensure better wildlife habitat management. The scheme will also promote community-based eco-tourism and farm afforestation, alongside other important goals like forest fire control, soil conservation, and the establishment of medicinal plant nurseries.

In line with these goals, the government plans to construct and maintain water bodies for animals, develop fodder gardens, and introduce solar-based infrastructure to reduce the reliance on conventional energy sources. Furthermore, measures like solar fencing and a plastic-free campaign are being put in place to address environmental concerns and mitigate human-animal conflicts.

The discussion also touched upon the second phase of the Odisha Forest Sector Development Project (OFSDP), for which Rs 40 crore has been allocated. Mita Bishwal, the Director of OFSDP, explained that this project aims to integrate afforestation, biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and the promotion of alternative livelihoods for forest-dependent communities. It will also focus on strengthening local institutions like Vana Suraksha Samitis (VSS) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to ensure sustainable forest management practices.

These comprehensive efforts reflect Odisha’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage while ensuring the socio-economic advancement of its tribal population. The proposed elevation of Simlipal to National Park status is a milestone in the state’s long-term vision for environmental sustainability and community welfare.