Bhubaneswar, June 18: Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia has urged the public to join hands in making crocodile conservation a widespread movement, as the state celebrated the 50th anniversary of its Crocodile Conservation Project on Tuesday.
Speaking through a video message at an event held in honor of International Crocodile Day, the Minister emphasized Odisha's critical role as a habitat for all three species of crocodiles—saltwater crocodiles (Baula), Mugger, and Gharial. "For the past 50 years, our state has set an example for the world in crocodile conservation," he said.
Minister Singh Khuntia highlighted that crocodile conservation is more than just about protecting a single species; it is closely tied to the preservation of rivers, water bodies, and the overall ecosystem. He stressed that crocodiles, as an integral part of the food chain, play a vital role in maintaining natural biodiversity. By removing dead organisms from rivers and lakes, they contribute to a healthier environment.
The Minister also reaffirmed the state's commitment to safeguarding water resources, forests, and wildlife, adding, "We must pledge to continue the great work started by our ancestors toward environmental protection and turn it into a mass movement." He also acknowledged the ongoing challenge of maintaining the ecological balance of Odisha's wetlands to ensure the success of the crocodile conservation project.
Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, Satyabrat Sahu, reflected on the significant journey of Odisha’s crocodile conservation efforts, describing the milestone as “a unique and glorious 50-year journey.” He recounted that nearly five decades ago, all three species of crocodiles in the state were on the brink of extinction, with their numbers reduced to just a handful.
In response to the critical situation, the Government of India, in collaboration with the United Nations, launched the ambitious crocodile conservation project in 1975. "Odisha's role in the success of this project has become a global model," said Sahu.
Today, the results are clear. The Baula crocodile population in the Bhitarkanika mangrove has surged from just 96 individuals to 1,880. The Gharial crocodile population, once critically low, has seen a resurgence, with natural breeding at Satkosia Gorge increasing their numbers to 16. Similarly, the state now boasts over 200 Mugger crocodiles, thanks to successful breeding initiatives.
The event underscored Odisha’s leadership in wildlife conservation, with a call to further strengthen efforts for preserving the state's rich biodiversity.
