Odisha's Rich Biodiversity: A Key Player in India's Ecological Landscape
Celebrating Biodiversity in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: The Minister for Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia, highlighted Odisha's biodiversity as a crucial element of India's natural heritage, significantly enhancing the nation's forest and ecological framework.
During the state-level observance of the International Day for Biological Diversity, organized by the State Biodiversity Board, Singhkhuntia underscored the necessity of safeguarding Odisha's diverse natural resources. He advocated for sustainable practices concerning land, water, forests, and wildlife to ensure these resources remain available for future generations.
The Minister emphasized that living in harmony with nature is vital for improving the quality of life for Odisha's residents. He also called for integrating sustainability into educational programs, encouraging students to adopt environmentally friendly practices and nurture a better relationship with nature, which is essential for a healthy planet.
Singhkhuntia pointed out that the primary aim of the International Day for Biological Diversity is to conserve and sustainably utilize biodiversity. The theme for the 2025 celebration is 'Harmony with Nature and its Sustainable Development.'
Odisha's varied geography and climate—from the Eastern Ghats to the Bay of Bengal—support a multitude of ecosystems, including forests, agricultural lands, wetlands, and coastal regions. Noteworthy natural landmarks include Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, and extensive dry rainforests.
The Minister mentioned that the Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department has initiated several programs aimed at preserving ecological balance and combating climate change, thus preventing forest degradation.
Satyabrata Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary of the Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department, remarked on Odisha's reputation for its unique biodiversity, which encompasses numerous endangered and threatened species.
He noted that the state is home to a rich variety of ecosystems, including coastal areas, forests, and wetlands, with over 5,174 species of plants and fungi, including 2,800 higher plant species, various grasses, orchids, and carnivorous plants.
In terms of wildlife, Odisha hosts 19 amphibian species, 110 reptile species, 473 bird species, and 86 mammal species. The state is also a critical habitat for endangered species like the Olive Ridley turtle at Gahirmatha beach and the Irrawaddy dolphin in Chilika Lake.
Sahu also highlighted the declaration of four Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS) in Odisha: Mandasaru Hills, Mahendragiri Hills, Gandhamardan Hills, and Gupteshwar Forest, recognized for their unique biodiversity and cultural significance. Additional biodiversity hotspots include Similipal National Park, Chilika Lake, Bhitarkanika National Park, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary.
A significant portion of Odisha's flora and fauna consists of endemic species, which are unique to the region. Sahu urged the State Biodiversity Board to promote sustainable resource use, restore degraded ecosystems, and raise awareness about biodiversity conservation, particularly among the youth.
Suresh Pant, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of the Forest Service, emphasized the importance of instilling a conservation mindset in young people to achieve long-term biodiversity objectives.
Other officials present included Prem Kumar Jha, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, and Dr. Mita Biswal, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chairperson of the Odisha Biodiversity Board.