Odisha Strengthens Similipal Tiger Reserve Conservation with New 10-Year Plan

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has intensified efforts to protect the rich biodiversity and wildlife of Similipal Tiger Reserve, one of India’s most significant tiger habitats. A new 10-year Tiger Conservation Plan has been approved, spanning from 2023-24 to 2032-33, aiming to enhance wildlife protection and combat poaching. The initiative is backed by continuous financial support through the Centrally Sponsored Scheme-Project Tiger (CSS-PT scheme) to strengthen infrastructure and conservation measures.

Announcing the plan in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia highlighted the comprehensive strategies being implemented in Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR). These include advanced surveillance technology, anti-poaching measures, habitat management, and wildlife protection forces to ensure the long-term sustainability of the reserve.

To enhance monitoring and security, AI cameras, infrared cameras, and trap cameras have been deployed across the reserve to track poachers and wildlife movement. A Similipal Special Tiger Protection Force (SSTPF), comprising forest officials, security assistants, and retired army personnel, has been stationed to protect the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

The government has also set up 135 anti-poaching camps in Similipal South Wildlife Sanctuary and 79 in Similipal North Wildlife Sanctuary to curb illegal activities. To further strengthen security, modern weapons such as INSAS rifles, X-caliber rifles, and automatic pistols have been provided to forest officials.

The Similipal Wildlife Intelligence Network (S-WIN) has been specially formed to gather intelligence on poaching and wildlife crimes, supported by permanent wireless centers for real-time data transmission. Additionally, a Joint Task Force (JTF), including forest personnel and police, has been formed to combat illegal encroachments and hunting. Over the past three years, 103 wildlife crime cases have been registered, 255 poachers arrested, and 57 guns seized in Similipal Tiger Reserve.

With rising concerns over forest fires, special firefighting squads are being established. Fire lines are being created in summer to prevent uncontrolled wildfires, which threaten both wildlife and their habitat.

To support wildlife sustenance, measures such as grassland management, salt lick management, and water reservoir construction have been undertaken to ensure adequate food and water supply. M-Stripes and Phase-IV tracking systems have been implemented to monitor tiger movement and habitat usage.

A Rapid Response Team (RRT) has also been formed to rescue and rehabilitate distressed wildlife.

In a landmark move, all villages inside Similipal, except Bakua village, have been completely relocated, creating more space for tiger movement and natural habitat expansion.

To increase tiger population and improve genetic diversity, a tiger migration scheme is being implemented to introduce tigers from outside Odisha into Similipal. This step is expected to strengthen the genetic pool of the existing tiger population and enhance their long-term survival.

The government has engaged local communities through Forest Protection Forces and Eco-Development Committees in the buffer areas of Similipal. Special vehicles and communication networks have been provided to ensure rapid response to poaching threats.

Additionally, public awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate and involve communities in conservation efforts, reinforcing the significance of protecting Similipal’s unique ecosystem and wildlife.

With these multi-pronged efforts, Odisha is setting a benchmark in tiger conservation, ensuring Similipal remains a safe haven for big cats and diverse wildlife. The state’s strategic approach, coupled with modern technology and strong enforcement measures, reaffirms its commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental protection.