Odisha plans induction of two tigers to boost Debrigarh population

Bhubaneswar, Jan 5: The Odisha government is planning to induct two tigers into the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Bargarh district to augment the big cat population in the protected area, which boasts dense forest cover and a healthy prey base.

The state has taken up the proposal with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) seeking approval for translocation of two tigers. Expressing optimism, officials said they are hopeful of receiving a positive response from the NTCA to strengthen tiger conservation efforts in the sanctuary.

Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia said forest officials are actively engaging with villagers living around the sanctuary to seek their cooperation and create awareness to prevent human–tiger conflict. Community participation, he said, is crucial for the long-term success of the tiger conservation programme.

Spread over about 900 sq km, the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary has a core area of nearly 500 sq km and is known for its rich biodiversity. The sanctuary supports diverse flora and fauna and already serves as a habitat for Royal Bengal Tigers.

Earlier, the Wildlife Wing of the state government had submitted a proposal to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for granting Tiger Reserve status to Debrigarh, considering its ecological potential.

To ensure human safety and minimise disturbance to wildlife, families residing inside the core area of the sanctuary have already been relocated and rehabilitated. According to senior forest officials, the displaced families have been provided with basic amenities at their new settlements, helping protect the forest area from human interference and deforestation.

The proposed induction of new tigers is expected to further strengthen Debrigarh’s ecological profile and reinforce Odisha’s commitment to wildlife conservation.