Similipal National Park: A New Chapter in Odisha’s Conservation Journey
In a landmark decision that marks the culmination of over four decades of anticipation, the Similipal Biosphere Reserve in Odisha has officially been declared a National Park. This historic designation, announced on April 24, 2025, by the Odisha Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department, positions Similipal as the second National Park in Odisha after Bhitarkanika and the 107th in India. This step not only highlights Odisha’s growing commitment to biodiversity conservation but also celebrates the unique ecological and cultural heritage of the Mayurbhanj district.
The declaration has been welcomed widely across the nation, particularly by environmentalists, local communities, and policymakers who have long advocated for Similipal’s enhanced protection. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Forest Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia for realizing a long-standing dream. For the people of Mayurbhanj, this marks a proud moment—recognition of a land they’ve cherished and protected for generations.
The Journey to National Park Status
The journey toward Similipal’s elevation began as early as 1980, when the proposal was first introduced. However, the real momentum came in May 2023, when President Droupadi Murmu, a native of Odisha and a strong advocate for tribal and environmental issues, visited Similipal. Her discussions with state officials breathed new life into the conservation plans.
Following the 2024 elections, the newly formed BJP-led state government prioritized the initiative under the leadership of MLA Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia. Now serving as the Minister of Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, Khuntia played a pivotal role in driving the project forward. With Chief Minister Majhi’s approval, the park was finally declared a National Park under Section 35(4) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The notification designates 845.70 sq. km of the Similipal Biosphere Reserve as National Park area, carved from the larger 2,750 sq. km expanse.
Similipal: A Treasure Trove of Biodiversity
Nestled in the heart of the Mayurbhanj district, Similipal is a rich ecological zone teeming with flora, fauna, and striking natural features. It forms part of the Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve and includes within its broader landscape the Similipal Tiger Reserve, Hadgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary.
Flora
Similipal’s plant life is nothing short of extraordinary. It harbors 1,076 species of flowering plants, including an impressive 96 species of orchids. The region is situated in the Eastern Highlands moist deciduous forests ecoregion, featuring tropical moist broadleaf forests, dry deciduous hill forests, and sal-dominated landscapes. Several medicinal and aromatic plants grow here, supporting traditional healthcare systems and providing livelihoods for indigenous communities.
Fauna
Similipal’s fauna is equally captivating. It is home to 42 species of mammals, 242 species of birds, and 30 species of reptiles. Key species include the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, gaur (Indian bison), and the rare chausingha (four-horned antelope). The skies above Similipal echo with the calls of red junglefowl, peafowl, and the melodious hill mynah, reflecting the rich avian diversity the region nurtures.
What National Park Status Means
Granting Similipal the status of a National Park is more than just a symbolic gesture—it comes with concrete legal, ecological, and social implications.
1. Legal Protection and Wildlife Management
As a National Park, Similipal is now subject to stricter legal safeguards. This status prohibits human activities such as logging, hunting, and non-sustainable grazing. It strengthens anti-poaching efforts, streamlines wildlife management practices, and enhances surveillance infrastructure. This is crucial for the safety of endangered species like the Bengal tiger and the Asian elephant, which face persistent threats from illegal wildlife trade and habitat degradation.
2. Enhanced Conservation and Biodiversity Protection
The National Park designation will bolster ongoing conservation strategies, ensuring that Similipal’s fragile ecosystem receives focused attention. The increased availability of central and state funding will support scientific research, habitat restoration, and biodiversity monitoring.
3. Boost to Eco-Tourism and Local Economies
Similipal's stunning landscapes—ranging from lush forests to cascading waterfalls—make it an ideal ecotourism destination. Barehipani Falls, standing at 399 meters, is India’s second-highest waterfall, while Joranda Falls adds to the park's serene allure. With better branding and infrastructure, the region is poised to attract more tourists, thereby stimulating local businesses and generating employment opportunities for indigenous communities.
4. Community Participation and Sustainable Development
The government has emphasized the involvement of local communities in the park’s management. This includes training tribal youth as eco-guides, promoting homestays, and facilitating the sale of locally made handicrafts and forest-based products. Similipal’s new status is expected to empower these communities, ensuring that development is both inclusive and sustainable.
Challenges on the Road Ahead
Despite the celebratory tone of the announcement, significant challenges remain.
1. Human Habitation and Relocation
Several villages still exist within the core zone of Similipal, complicating conservation efforts. While the relocation of communities is underway, it must be handled with sensitivity, respecting the rights, traditions, and livelihoods of the tribal populations. A successful model would require fair compensation, access to education, healthcare, and long-term livelihood options in the resettlement areas.
2. Climate Change Vulnerability
Similipal is not immune to the adverse impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and increasing forest fires have affected its ecological balance. Going forward, adaptive management practices—such as climate-resilient species planting, fire control systems, and water conservation techniques—must be integral to the park’s management plan.
3. Balancing Tourism and Conservation
While tourism promises economic benefits, unregulated tourism can strain the park’s ecosystems. Ensuring that infrastructure development—like roads, lodges, and viewing points—is eco-friendly and within permissible limits will be critical to preventing overexploitation.
A Step Toward Global Recognition
With its new designation, Similipal is expected to gain broader international recognition. Already part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves, it now joins India’s elite group of National Parks—putting it on the map for global conservation funding, research collaborations, and international tourism.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan rightly noted that Similipal’s unique identity will now receive the attention it deserves on the world stage. As India continues to prioritize green growth and climate action, Similipal’s recognition serves as a beacon for conservation-led development.
Conclusion
The declaration of Similipal as a National Park is not just a policy milestone—it is a testament to the persistent efforts of conservationists, tribal communities, and public leaders who believed in the region’s potential. It reflects Odisha’s evolving conservation legacy and sets a precedent for other states in integrating environmental protection with community development.
As Similipal embarks on this new journey, the challenge lies in maintaining the delicate balance between preservation and progress. With a shared vision and collaborative efforts, Similipal can emerge as a model National Park—where wildlife thrives, communities flourish, and nature continues to inspire generations to come.
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