Odisha’s Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary to Become New Tiger Reserve

Remarkable Transformation of Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha is on the brink of becoming India’s newest tiger reserve, marking a milestone in wildlife conservation. This 804-square-kilometre sanctuary has undergone a profound transformation from a conflict-affected area with human settlements into a flourishing ecosystem boasting diverse wildlife and a healthy prey base.

After receiving approval from the National Tiger Conservation Authority in mid-2025, Debrigarh welcomed around 85,000 visitors and generated tourism revenue of INR 5 crore in the same year, reflecting its rising profile as an eco-tourism destination. Key wildlife species thriving here include gaur, sambar, spotted deer, wild boars, leopards, and the recovering wild dog population.

Community Partnership Model Driving Conservation Success

The sanctuary’s success story is deeply rooted in an innovative community engagement strategy. Over 400 families residing in the core areas were voluntarily relocated with generous compensation packages that featured pucca houses, farmland, and skill training. Rather than resisting change, many of these community members have embraced entrepreneurship, launching ventures such as computer centers, travel services, and garages, effectively turning former forest dwellers into thriving business owners.

This cooperation freed up approximately 500 hectares of vital forest land, which has been restored into grasslands essential for sustaining herbivore populations. Beyond the core area, more than 155 peripheral villages have transitioned from potential opposition to active conservation partners, reflecting a unique social transformation.

Unique Ecosystem and Biodiversity

Strategically located adjacent to the Hirakud Wetland, Debrigarh offers a rare mix of habitats — from wetlands and grasslands to dense forests — supporting rich biodiversity. The sanctuary is home to over 300 bird species, including 120 migratory varieties that use the wetland as a critical stopover on their journeys to Chilika Lake. The recent Ramsar designation of Hirakud Wetland underscores its global ecological importance.

Remarkably, some migratory birds have started breeding in the wetland year-round, signaling a thriving environmental balance.

Innovative Dark Sky Tourism and Historical Essence

One of Debrigarh’s unexpected charms is its emergence as a top-tier dark sky tourism destination. With 1,000 square kilometres devoid of artificial light pollution, including sanctuary lands and the wetland, it offers unparalleled stargazing experiences. Newly opened eco-friendly stargazing facilities attract visitors both domestic and international, who are guided through constellations in this pristine night environment.

Beyond nature, Debrigarh carries historic weight. Known as the stronghold of freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai, the landscape intertwines India’s independence history with conservation efforts. Memorials and pilgrimage sites within the sanctuary continue to draw thousands annually, blending cultural heritage with ecological preservation.

Advanced Technologies Supporting Conservation

Modern technology strengthens conservation efforts here. Deployment of camera traps and AI-supported wildlife tracking enables detailed monitoring of animal populations. Plans to broadcast live feeds globally aim to heighten transparency and engagement with global audiences. Strict sustainability practices are enforced, including a zero single-use plastic policy and routine water quality assessments.

Tourism Impact: Economic and Social Benefits

Tourism activities at Debrigarh now support employment for over 100 families, with women making up 40% of this workforce. The sanctuary offers an array of visitor experiences such as island visits, jungle safaris, birding trails, kayaking, and cycling. A fleet of 53 safari vehicles operates daily year-round, with ambitions to increase annual visitor numbers to one million shortly.

Rising International Recognition

Debrigarh is rapidly gaining global attention from wildlife photographers, conservationists, filmmakers, and eco-tourism experts. Efforts are underway to promote it as a premier destination, showcasing how integrated strategies melding wildlife protection, community welfare, historic preservation, and sustainable tourism can succeed.

Historical Background and Conservation Outlook

For decades, protected areas in India have been pivotal in tiger conservation, with reserves like Jim Corbett and Sundarbans serving as benchmarks. Debrigarh sets a new example by combining community relocation with tangible economic reinvigoration and ecosystem restoration. Its proximity to significant water bodies and diverse habitats makes it a prime candidate for future tiger population growth and wildlife tourism advancement.

As conservation models evolve, places like Debrigarh highlight the critical role of local communities and innovative management approaches in achieving sustainable outcomes. The sanctuary’s dual focus on preserving biodiversity and enriching human livelihoods aligns with global trends advocating for conservation tourism that benefits both nature and people.

Future Implications for Tourism and Conservation

• Enhanced Wildlife Viewing Experiences: A healthy prey base and expanded habitat will likely support expanding tiger populations, drawing enthusiasts and researchers alike.
• Expanded Eco-Tourism Activities: Combining historical heritage tours, stargazing, and adventure tourism forms a multi-dimensional visitor offering.
• Community-Led Sustainable Development: Entrepreneurial opportunities for relocated families underpin social sustainability.
• Technology-Driven Engagement: Live feeds and AI monitoring may inspire virtual tourism trends alongside physical visits.

Conclusion

Odisha’s Debrigarh Sanctuary stands as a remarkable conservation success story, transitioning from a conflict-ridden zone to a thriving home for wildlife and an emerging eco-tourism hotspot. The sanctuary’s innovative community partnership, rich biodiversity, and unique dark sky tourism present a compelling blueprint for future protected areas. As tourism flourishes here, it not only contributes to local economic growth but supports global conservation goals by safeguarding habitat for tigers and other wildlife.

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