Bhubaneswar: Odisha on Friday launched a new research grant for wildlife conservation and unveiled several ecotourism initiatives as part of the State Level Wildlife Week Celebration-2026 held here.
The programme, organised at the State Convention Centre of Loka Seva Bhawan, focused on wildlife conservation, research, ecological awareness and responsible ecotourism in the state.
Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia, who attended the programme as chief guest, said Wildlife Week was an opportunity to strengthen the bond between nature and people and renew the commitment towards wildlife conservation.
He said Odisha had achieved several milestones in wildlife conservation over the past two years through scientific approaches, modern technology, administrative measures and the efforts of forest personnel and local communities.
A major highlight of the event was the launch of CM-GROW (Chief Minister’s Grant for Research on Odisha’s Wildlife) to promote wildlife research and strengthen the scientific basis of conservation efforts in the state.
Several ecotourism destinations were also inaugurated online, including Peacock Valley and Nageswar Dam in Chandaka Wildlife Division, destinations in Similipal North Wildlife Division, Karakhol in Chilika Wildlife Division, Sambalpur Zoo and visitor amenities in Hirakud Wildlife Division.
Foundation stones were virtually laid for upcoming ecotourism projects at Rajhans in Chilika Wildlife Division, Rani Duduma in Koraput Forest Division, Badmul in Mahanadi Wildlife Division, Pentha in Rajnagar Wildlife Division and new facilities at Nandankanan Zoological Park.
The event also saw the release of the film “The Biodiversity of Eastern Ghats”, highlighting the ecological significance and biological diversity of the region, besides “The Intertidal Ecosystem of Bhitarkanika.”
Several publications and technical documents, including Wildlife Odisha – 2026, The Long Walk to Similipal, Explore Odisha, Orchid Genera of Odisha in Pictures, Mahanadi re Ghadial Ra Jibani, Tracking the Ocean Wanderers and Two Flamingos Two Journeys, were also released.
The publications cover Odisha’s biodiversity, wildlife research, ecotourism potential and satellite telemetry studies of key species.
The ceremony also included distribution of sanction orders and cheques to people whose houses were completely damaged by wildlife, as part of the state’s assistance to victims of human-wildlife conflict.
An achievement video showcasing the work of the Wildlife Wing and a presentation on week-long wildlife awareness activities conducted across Odisha were also screened.
Principal Secretary, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, PCCF and HoFF K Murugesan, PCCF (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden Prem Kumar Jha, Additional PCCF (Wildlife) Manoj V Nair and other senior forest officials, wildlife enthusiasts and environmentalists attended the programme.
