Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government is committed to enhancing the protection of the rich biodiversity and wildlife of Similipal Tiger Reserve, which has been a part of the national Tiger Project since 1973.
Minister for Forests, Environment, and Climate Change, Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia has outlined a series of critical measures aimed at fortifying the region’s wildlife conservation efforts. These include continuous financial support through the Centrally Sponsored Scheme-Project Tiger (CSS-PT) to improve infrastructure and the approval of a new Tiger Conservation Plan for the next decade (2023-2024 to 2032-33).
“We are adopting a multi-faceted approach to safeguard the flora and fauna of Similipal. From advanced technology and infrastructure enhancements to the active involvement of local communities, every effort is being made to ensure its protection,” said Singkhuntia.
Among the significant steps being implemented are the installation of AI cameras, infrared cameras, and trap cameras for monitoring poachers and wildlife. A specialized Similipal Special Tiger Protection Force (SSTPF) has been deployed to bolster security. Along with this, permanent forest officials, including forest officers, sub-forest officers, forest guards, and retired army personnel, are being stationed in various areas to provide additional protection.
The Odisha government has also set up a robust security system around Similipal, including the creation of permanent wireless centres for quick data transmission and special vehicles for officers to respond promptly to hunting threats. The newly formed Similipal Wildlife Intelligence Network (S-WIN) is dedicated to collecting information on wildlife poaching activities.
Efforts to combat poaching have led to the establishment of 135 anti-poaching camps in the Similipal South Wildlife Sanctuary and 79 in the North Wildlife Sanctuary. Additionally, modern firearms, such as INSAS rifles and automatic pistols, have been provided to forest officials to enhance their capability in curbing illegal activities.
Fire prevention is another priority, with fire lines being established during the summer and a specialized firefighting squad under formation. Meanwhile, modern tracking technology such as M-Stripes and Phase-IV systems are being used to monitor the movements of tigers and other wild animals.
In collaboration with local communities, extensive public awareness programs are underway to garner support for wildlife conservation. The government has also made strides in improving the habitat for wildlife, including grassland management, the construction of water reservoirs, and salt lick management to ensure the animals’ nutritional and hydration needs are met.
The relocation of all villages inside Similipal (except Bakua village) is another key initiative to provide wildlife with uninterrupted space to thrive and move freely. Furthermore, a tiger migration scheme has been launched to introduce tigers from other states, boosting their population and gene pool.
Singkhuntia also highlighted the formation of a Joint Task Force (JTF) consisting of forest personnel and police forces to step up protection. Over the past three years, 103 wildlife crime cases have been registered in Similipal, resulting in the arrest of 255 poachers and the seizure of 57 firearms.
