Odisha to Set Up Second Regional Plant Resource Centre in Keonjhar

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday reviewed plans for the establishment of a new Regional Plant Resource Centre (RPRC) at Sanaghagara in Keonjhar, a flagship initiative aimed at promoting biodiversity conservation, eco-tourism, and research-based education.

The proposed centre, to be developed over 134 acres, will be the second RPRC in Odisha, complementing the existing facility in Bhubaneswar. It is envisioned as a scientific and recreational hub, combining conservation efforts with public engagement through thematic gardens and natural landscapes.

The upcoming RPRC will feature orchid conservation and display units, and themed gardens showcasing lotus, ferns, medicinal, and wild edible plants. It will also include a flower market, children’s play area, and public amenities designed using local materials such as stone and wood to retain the region’s natural aesthetic. The project is expected to be completed by 2027.

During the meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan, Chief Minister Majhi emphasized developing the RPRC as a year-round eco-tourism destination and directed officials to ensure its accessibility throughout the year. He also instructed the Keonjhar district administration to address elephant disturbances through the construction of deep trenches and to maintain adequate water flow in the Machhakandana River to support the centre’s sustainability.

The review meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Additional Chief Secretary (Forest) Satyabrata Sahu, PCCF & HoFF Suresh Pant, and Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Saswat Mishra. Keonjhar Collector Vishal Singh and DFO Dhanraj Hanumant Dhamdere joined the meeting virtually.