Debrigarh Sanctuary to Get Major Eco-Tourism Upgrade
New ₹71.19-crore project aims to boost tourism, jobs and wildlife protection
Bhubaneswar: The Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary in Bargarh district is set for a major makeover, with the Forest and Environment Department approving a detailed project report (DPR) worth ₹71.19 crore. The project aims to turn the sanctuary into an international-level eco-tourism destination over the next few years.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan shared the update on social media, saying the project will help Debrigarh gain global visibility while also strengthening wildlife conservation efforts. He said the eco-tourism plan will create new jobs for local communities and draw significantly more visitors to the region.
Pradhan thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia for supporting the project.
According to forest officials, the funds will come from the Central government under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment scheme of the Ministry of Tourism.
Originally, the Tourism Department had planned to execute the project. However, due to concerns raised at various levels, the government decided it would be more appropriate for the Forest Department to handle it as an eco-tourism initiative. This shift ensures that conservation remains at the centre of the development work.
Apart from the main project, the government has also approved an additional ₹14.18 crore to build a 100-km protective boundary fence around the sanctuary. The fencing will be funded through CAMPA or other state allocations. Officials say this barrier will help reduce conflicts between wildlife and nearby human settlements.
PCCF (Wildlife) Prem Kumar Jha said the entire eco-tourism plan will be carried out in a sustainable way so that both conservation and community development go hand in hand.
Sources in the department said the government has instructed all concerned agencies to begin work under the newly approved DPR without delay. The project is expected to improve eco-tourism facilities, support livelihood opportunities for local communities, and protect Debrigarh’s diverse ecosystems in the long run.
With improved infrastructure, better conservation measures and increased visibility, Debrigarh could soon emerge as one of India’s standout eco-tourism spots.
