Odisha's Bihanga Utsav 2026 Opens Chilika's Nalabana to Bird Lovers

A tourist at Khordha told ANI that two locations, Mangalajodi and Nalabana, attract large numbers of migratory birds each year. She also emphasised the difficulty of visiting Nalabana, as it is located within a protected forest and public access is restricted. However, the Odisha government's initiative has made it easier for visitors to explore Nalabana every weekend for 3 months, i.e., from December to February. As a result of the initiative, the tourist observed many species of migratory birds.

The tourist named Priyankita said, "In Odisha, there are two locations, Mangalajodi and Nalabana, that attract many migratory birds each year. Previously, visiting Nalabana was challenging because it is located in a protected forest with restricted public access. However, thanks to an initiative by the Odisha government, visitors can now explore Nalabana on Saturdays and Sundays from December to February. This program allows us to observe numerous migratory birds from Siberia, including pelicans, flamingos, golden ducks, and a variety of other bird species..."

The Odisha Bihanga Utsav 2026 is a state-wide celebration of avian diversity, primarily focused on the migratory season at Chilika Lake.

Earlier in Gujarat, an official press release stated that of the approximately 9,000 bird species worldwide, 1,200 are found in India. Of these, more than 400 species are foreign migratory birds. These migratory birds come to India, including Gujarat, from Siberia, Eastern Europe, and North and Central Asia.

According to the official press release, for the protection and conservation of birds and animals in the state, as well as for environmental protection, since the time Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he has implemented strict laws, rules, and schemes, which are being continued by the current Chief Minister of the state, Bhupendra Patel. As a result, Gujarat has become the safest state for migratory birds and animals for the past 1.5 decades.

According to the release, under the guidance of Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia and Minister of State Praveen Mali, the Forest Department and several animal and bird lover organisations are conducting practical work to rescue and protect these animals and birds.

- ANI