Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has announced a series of important leadership changes in the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department. The reshuffle includes the appointment of IFS officer Sanath Kumar N. as the new Director of Nandankanan Zoological Park, and the assignment of Manoj V. Nair as Member Secretary of the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) along with additional responsibilities.
Sanath Kumar N. Appointed Director, Nandankanan Zoological Park
Indian Forest Services (IFS) officer Sanath Kumar N., who previously served as Deputy Director of Nandankanan Zoological Park, has now been elevated to Director. The appointment marks a significant leadership transition in Odisha’s premier zoological and biological institution.
Located in Bhubaneswar, Nandankanan Zoological Park is renowned for its wildlife conservation, research, and biodiversity initiatives. Sanath Kumar N.’s promotion reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening leadership and operational efficiency in the state’s key conservation institutions.
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Manoj V. Nair Assigned as Member Secretary, SPCB
Manoj V. Nair, the former Director of Nandankanan Zoological Park, has been assigned as Member Secretary of the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB). He will also hold the additional responsibility of Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (APCCF) – Wildlife.
His new role positions him at the forefront of environmental governance, overseeing critical initiatives in pollution control and wildlife conservation across Odisha.
Other Key Postings
G. Rajesh, IFS, continues as CEO of CAMPA and has been given additional charge as Project Director of the Odisha Forestry Sector Development Project (OFSDP), Ghatikia, Bhubaneswar.
These postings are part of the Odisha government’s broader reshuffle in the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, aimed at reinforcing leadership in vital conservation and environmental institutions.
Strategic Implications
The appointments reflect Odisha’s focus on:
- Strengthening institutional leadership in forestry, wildlife, and environmental governance
- Ensuring continuity in conservation and zoological initiatives
- Enhancing operational efficiency in state pollution control and forest management projects
These changes are expected to bolster both policy implementation and strategic oversight across Odisha’s premier environmental and wildlife institutions.
