Bio-diversity Management

This component has been implemented in the Protected Areas of the project divisions. Eco-cottages have been established in Chhotkei in Satkosia WL Division. A 'day visit centre' has been developed at Goindi & Baliput in Satkosia WL Division for reducing the pressure from the core area. Both these facilities are being managed by the local communities (Eco-Tourism Groups). Solar fences around the villages have been erected under Entry Point Activities to reduce man-animal conflict. An action plan for Eco-tourism destination Development around mangroves was prepared for Bichitrapur sea beach in Balasore Wildlife Division, and to start with a day visit center at Khadibil has been developed.

Eco-tourism Management under Bio-diversity Component of OFSDP PHASE-I

Similarly Eco-tourism destination development for day visitors at Gandahati and Khasada in Parlakhemundi Division, Mandasaru in Phulbani Division and Baliput in Satkosia (WL) Division has been completed. A proposal prepared for declaring Kuldiha-Hadgarh-Similipal Elephant Corridor as a 'Conservation Reserve' was sent to the Government for consideration. Further, another proposal for declaring Mandargiri area in Angul District as 'Bio-diversity Heritage site' has been submitted to the State Biodiversity Board for their consideration. A draft Eco-tourism Policy for the State was also prepared under OFSDP and it was submitted to the State Government through the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (WL)-cum-Chief Wildlife Warden, Odisha.