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Key Points

Similipal Tiger Reserve has officially become Odisha's second national park and India's 107th. The reserve is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, including Bengal tigers and Asian elephants. Officials highlight this as a major milestone in conservation efforts, with tourism expected to rise. The recognition reinforces Odisha's commitment to protecting its natural heritage.

Key Points: Similipal Tiger Reserve Declared Odisha's 2nd National Park

  • Similipal now India's 107th national park
  • Odisha's second after Bhitarkanika
  • Home to tigers, elephants, and rare wildlife
  • Expected to boost eco-tourism and conservation
2 min read

Similipal becomes India's 107th national park, Odisha's 2nd

Odisha's Similipal Tiger Reserve becomes India's 107th national park, boosting conservation and tourism with its rich biodiversity.

"This marks the second national park in Odisha and the 107th in India. Our long-standing efforts to revive Similipal have paid off. – Samrat Gouda"

Mayurbanj, April 25

Odisha's Similipal Tiger Reserve has been conferred the status of National Park. With this, Similipal has become the state's second national park after Bhitarkanika and 107th in the country.

The reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity and majestic wildlife, including Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, gaur, and Chausingha.

"Similipal has been officially declared as a National Park today, marking a landmark achievement in Odisha's conservation efforts and reaffirming the state's commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity and natural heritage," Odisha's Forest, Environment and Climate Change department wrote on X.

https://x.com/ForestDeptt/status/1915439383555301759

Speaking with ANI, Deputy Director of Similipal Tiger Reserve Samrat Gouda said that their long-standing efforts to revive Similipal had paid off.

"We're delighted to share that the Odisha government has declared Similipal as a national park. This marks the second national park in Odisha and the 107th in India. Our long-standing efforts to revive Similipal have paid off, with a notable increase in tiger numbers," Samrat Gauda said.

Sampat Gauda informed that the core area of approximately 845 square kilometres has been declared a national park.

"We'll continue to manage it according to the rules and regulations, further enhancing conservation efforts. This recognition is a significant milestone for Similipal Tiger Reserve," he added.

Similpal has been part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2009. The park offers various tourist activities, including Safari,Nature Camps. The declaration of Similipal as a national park is a proud moment for the district and the state, and it will have a positive impact on the local economy and conservation efforts.

The declaration is expected to boost tourism in the region, attracting visitors from worldwide. This influx of tourists will likely generate employment opportunities and revenue for the local population. The national park status will also enhance conservation efforts, protecting the reserve's unique ecosystem and wildlife.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
This is such amazing news! 🎉 Similipal is truly a gem of Odisha. I visited last year and was blown away by the wildlife sightings. The national park status will help protect this beautiful ecosystem for future generations.
R
Rahul M.
While this is great news, I hope the government ensures proper infrastructure for tourism. Last time I went, the roads were terrible and there weren't enough trained guides. Conservation is important, but visitor experience matters too.
A
Ananya S.
So proud of my state! 🌿 Odisha's biodiversity is truly remarkable. The increase in tiger numbers shows how effective conservation efforts can be when implemented properly. Can't wait to visit again!
S
Suresh P.
I hope this doesn't lead to over-tourism. We've seen what happened to other national parks when they became too popular. Strict regulations are needed to maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
M
Meena R.
The nature camps in Similipal are magical! Waking up to birdsong and seeing elephants at dawn was unforgettable. This recognition is well-deserved and will hopefully bring more resources for conservation.

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