Sambalpur: Odisha’s Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is all set to be declared India’s newest tiger reserve, marking a transformative leap in conservation, tourism, and community engagement. The 804 sq km sanctuary, which received approval from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) in July 2025, has undergone a spectacular revival — both ecologically and socioeconomically.
A Thriving Ecosystem Ready for Tigers
Located just 40 km from Sambalpur, Debrigarh has reported encouraging wildlife indicators. According to DFO Anshu Pragya Das, prey density is excellent, with stable populations of gaur, sambar, spotted deer, wild boar, and wild dogs.
“Forty percent of all animal herds now consist of newborns, and the Indian gaur population rose from 670 to over 700 in just six months,” Das noted.
These numbers signal a self-sustaining ecosystem, now fully equipped to support apex predators like tigers.
Community-First Conservation: A Model Approach
Debrigarh’s success is rooted in its community partnership model, setting it apart from typical top-down conservation efforts:
400+ families voluntarily relocated with a comprehensive rehabilitation package including ₹15 lakh compensation, agricultural land, concrete homes, and skill development.
Resettled communities have launched small businesses—from computer centres to garages and travel agencies.
500 hectares of forest were reclaimed and restored into stable grasslands, key to boosting herbivore numbers.
Over 155 peripheral villages have now become active conservation partners.
“Different kinds of occupations are coming up in one colony. It’s a complete shift from conflict to entrepreneurship,” said Das.
Unique Ecosystem with National Importance
Debrigarh shares 100+ km of border with the Hirakud Wetland, now a Ramsar site, making it one of the few amphi-terrestrial habitats in India. This includes:
Wetlands, grasslands, and forests in one integrated landscape.
300+ bird species, including 120+ migratory species.
Seasonal congregation of 400,000 birds between October–March, with some now breeding during summer—a rare occurrence.
Dark Sky Tourism: India’s First of Its Kind
Debrigarh is also pioneering dark sky tourism, offering unmatched stargazing experiences due to:
Zero human habitation across 1,000 sq km (353 sq km sanctuary + 700 sq km wetland).
Six stargazing rooms inaugurated for astronomy enthusiasts.
Nighttime eco-tours to islands where visitors view constellations with expert guidance.
“It’s a different world for most visitors,” Das said.
Heritage and Conservation Intertwined
Debrigarh is not only ecologically significant but also historically revered. The sanctuary once served as a strategic base for freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai, who resisted British rule in the 19th century.
A memorial developed with local historians and the Bara Bakra pilgrimage site, which attracts over 5,000 devotees during Sankranti, reinforces the area’s cultural and national importance.
Technology-Driven, Eco-Friendly Conservation
Use of AI-based camera traps and wildlife tracking.
Global live feeds under development for virtual tourism.
Zero single-use plastic policy across the landscape.
Annual water quality monitoring for sustainability benchmarks.
Tourism, Employment, and Women’s Empowerment
100+ families directly employed in tourism activities.
40% workforce consists of women.
53 safari vehicles operate daily, with year-round access.
Community-led management across 15+ tourism activities: safaris, kayaking, birding, cycling, and cultural trails.
Debrigarh generated ₹5 crore in tourism revenue and saw 85,000 visitors in 2025. The forest department aims to scale this to 1 million annual visitors in the coming years.
Global Recognition & Replicability
Debrigarh is now drawing international photographers, writers, filmmakers, and conservationists, making it a case study in sustainable eco-tourism.
“We want people across the world to know about Debrigarh,” said Das.
Its success offers a replicable model for other wildlife sanctuaries in India—combining biodiversity, heritage, sustainability, and community upliftment.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit-
- October–March for migratory birds
- April–June for peak wildlife sightings
How to reach:
- 40 km from Sambalpur
- 80 km from Veer Surendra Sai Airport, Jharsuguda
Facilities-
- Accommodation available
- Year-round access to all zones
