Tiger Introduction in Debrigarh Sanctuary
The Odisha government has announced plans to introduce tigers into Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Bargarh district. This move aims to revive the big cat population in the state. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has granted technical permission to convert Debrigarh into a tiger reserve. An expert committee has been formed to demarcate the core and buffer zones for tiger habitation. Once completed, the government will initiate steps for tiger relocation.
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary – Location and Significance
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Bargarh district near Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River. It spans about 347 square kilometres. Established in 1985, the sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot. It also has historical importance as the base of freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai during his rebellion against British rule.
Flora and Fauna of Debrigarh Sanctuary
The sanctuary is dominated by mixed and dry deciduous forests. Key tree species include Sal, Asana, Bija, Aanla, and Dhaura. Animal residents feature Indian leopards, sloth bears, chousingha (four-horned antelope), sambar deer, gaurs (Indian bison), wild boars, and Indian wild dogs (dholes). It is a major wintering ground for migratory birds such as the crested serpent eagle, flower peckers, red-vented bulbul, tree pie, drongo, and white-eye oriental.
Tiger Relocation Challenges
Tiger relocation is complex and has seen mixed results in Odisha. The attempt to relocate tigress Sundari to Satkosia Tiger Reserve failed. In 2024, two tigresses, Jamuna and Zeenat, were brought to Similipal Tiger Reserve from Maharashtra. The project was 80% successful despite Zeenat moving to neighbouring states before returning. Both tigresses now occupy separate territories.
Inbreeding
Inbreeding is a concern in closed tiger populations like Similipal. To counter this, authorities plan to bring four tigers (two males and two females) from Maharashtra. After monitoring the current tigresses’ behaviour, further introductions will be considered.
Previous Tiger Translocation Attempts
In 2018, Odisha attempted tiger translocation at Satkosia with a male tiger named Mahavir and a female tigress named Sundari from Madhya Pradesh. Mahavir died due to a poacher’s trap. Sundari was sent back after allegedly killing two people. These experiences show the difficulties in tiger relocation and the need for careful planning.
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