The Odisha Government has officially declared the Simlipal Tiger Reserve as a National Park, marking a significant step in wildlife conservation and ecological protection. Exercising the powers conferred under sub-section (4) of Section 35 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the state government issued a notification specifying the area described in the Schedules as the newly established “Similipal National Park.” The declaration has been made effective from the date of publication in the Odisha Gazette, under the authority of Governor Mr. Kambhampati Hari Babu.
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Located in Mayurbhanj district, Simlipal is one of India’s most prominent tiger reserves and forms an integral part of the UNESCO-recognized Simlipal Biosphere Reserve. Spanning over 2,700 square kilometers, the reserve is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including Royal Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. Named after the red silk cotton trees (Simul) that flourish here, the area is known for its dense sal forests, scenic meadows, and spectacular waterfalls like Barehipani and Joranda. With this new designation, Simlipal’s ecological significance is further elevated, reinforcing its role as a hub for biodiversity conservation, eco-tourism, and environmental research in eastern India.
Official Order:
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