Similipal Officially Declared India's 107th National Park
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Similipal in Odisha granted national park status by Odisha government. |
| Date of Notification | April 24, 2025 |
| New Rank | 107th national park in India, 2nd in Odisha (after Bhitarkanika). |
| Area | 845.70 sq km, divided into 11 ranges across Similipal south and north divisions. |
| Ranges Included | Pithabata north, Pithabata south, Nawana, Jenabil, Upper Barahkamuda, Bhanjabasa, Barehipani, Chahala, Nawana North, Talabandha. |
| Significance | Odisha's largest national park, proposed for national park status in 1980. |
| Biodiversity | Home to 55 mammal species, 361 bird species, 62 reptiles, and 21 amphibians. |
| Tiger Reserve | One of India's major tiger reserves. |
| Human Habitation | 6 villages in core area. 4 relocated, Bakua (61 families) excluded from the park. |
| Historical Context | Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1973, tiger habitat in 2007. |
| Conservation Impact | Stronger protection laws, additional funding, and increased global attention as biodiversity hotspot. |
| Political Reactions | Praised by CM Mohan Charan Majhi and wildlife officials like PCCF Prem Kumar Jha. |