Wildlife / Odisha Launches CM-GROW Programme to Promote Wildlife Research and Scientific Conservation

Bhubaneswar, Oct 3: The Odisha government on Saturday launched the Chief Minister’s Grant for Research on Odisha’s Wildlife (CM-GROW) programme to promote wildlife research and strengthen the scientific approach to conservation in the state.

Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia launched the programme while attending the state-level Wildlife Week celebration as the chief guest.

As part of CM-GROW, another 300 AI-enabled and regular surveillance cameras will soon be installed in the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district to monitor poaching and study animal behaviour.

“At present, 300 cameras are fitted across Similipal, and another 300 will be installed soon,” Singkhuntia said.

Focus On Science And Technology
The minister said Wildlife Week was an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between people and nature 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 contribution of forest personnel and local communities.

An achievement video showcasing the work of the wildlife wing and a presentation on wildlife awareness activities conducted across the state were screened during the event.

New Ecotourism Destinations
The programme also featured the release of coloured postcards and special covers, along with the online inauguration of several day-visit ecotourism destinations.

These included Peacock Valley and Nageswar Dam in Chandaka Wildlife Division, destinations in Similipal North Wildlife Division, Karakhol in Chilika Wildlife Division, Sambalpur Zoo and visitor facilities in Hirakud Wildlife Division.

Also Read: Nandankanan Zoo Welcomes 36 New Animals Ahead of Wildlife Week Celebrations

Foundation stones were also laid virtually for upcoming ecotourism projects at Rajhans, Rani Duduma, Badmul and Pentha, besides new facilities at Nandankanan Zoological Park.

A movie titled "The Biodiversity of Eastern Ghats" was also released, highlighting the region's biodiversity and ecological significance.

The celebration concluded with the distribution of sanction orders and cheques to people whose houses were completely damaged by wildlife, as part of the state's support for communities affected by human-wildlife interactions.