In a significant step towards strengthening biodiversity conservation and promoting eco-tourism in Odisha, the state government has announced the establishment of a new Regional Plant Resource Centre (RPRC) in Sanaghagara, Keonjhar. The project, which will span approximately 134 acres, will be Odisha’s second such centre, aiming to become a hub for environmental education, ecological preservation, and sustainable tourism.
Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi recently held detailed discussions with officials from the Department of Forest, Environment, and Climate Change and the Keonjhar district administration to review the plan. His vision is clear: to turn this ecologically rich area into a vibrant centre for conservation, research, and public engagement, all while addressing local challenges like human-wildlife conflict.
What Is the Regional Plant Resource Centre (RPRC)?
The Regional Plant Resource Centre is envisioned as a multi-functional institution that will focus on:
-
Biodiversity conservation, especially native and rare plant species
-
A community knowledge centre for local education and awareness
-
Eco-tourism development, promoting responsible travel and nature appreciation
-
Research and training, particularly in botany, plant sciences, and traditional knowledge systems
Sanaghagara’s naturally rich terrain, already a popular tourist spot, makes it an ideal location for such a green initiative. With this new centre, the site is expected to gain further prominence at the state and national level.
Boost to Eco-Tourism in Keonjhar
Keonjhar, known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and tribal culture, is now emerging as a promising eco-tourism destination. The addition of the RPRC will:
-
Attract nature lovers, researchers, and students throughout the year
-
Offer interpretation centres, guided nature walks, and interactive exhibitions
-
Create employment opportunities for local youth as eco-guides, hospitality workers, and conservation assistants
-
Promote community-based tourism, empowering tribal and forest-dwelling communities to preserve their culture and environment while benefiting economically
Importantly, the centre will be open to tourists and the public year-round, ensuring continuous footfall and engagement.
Addressing the Elephant-Human Conflict
One of the pressing challenges in the Keonjhar region has been frequent elephant-human conflict. The Chief Minister has directed the district administration to take suitable mitigation measures to safeguard both human life and wildlife. The development of this RPRC will also serve as an opportunity to:
-
Educate communities about wildlife behaviour
-
Promote coexistence and conservation ethics
-
Develop early warning systems and sustainable habitat management practices
Eco-Tourism Development in Odisha: A Broader Vision
Odisha is steadily positioning itself as a leader in eco-tourism in eastern India. Projects like Satkosia Tiger Reserve, Debrigarh, Chilika Lake, and Bhitarkanika have already shown how responsible tourism can blend with conservation.
The government’s integrated approach includes:
-
Establishing eco-tourism cottages and nature camps in forested areas
-
Promoting tribal culture, handicrafts, and traditional cuisines
-
Encouraging green investments through public-private partnerships
-
Strengthening infrastructure like access roads, signage, and safety features
The upcoming RPRC in Keonjhar will become a model of how conservation, education, tourism, and community welfare can go hand in hand.
Looking Ahead: A Model for Sustainable Development
The proposed Regional Plant Resource Centre at Sanaghagara is not just a botanical facility—it is a symbol of Odisha’s commitment to sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and inclusive growth.
By blending science with traditional knowledge, conservation with livelihood, and tourism with education, this project will:
-
Help protect Odisha’s rich flora
-
Create long-term opportunities for local communities
-
Enhance environmental awareness
-
Position Keonjhar as a green tourism hotspot
As we move forward, projects like these remind us that development and conservation are not opposing forces—they are two sides of the same coin when done with vision, care, and purpose.
Sanaghagara’s transformation is just the beginning. Odisha is writing a new chapter—one where nature, people, and progress walk hand in hand.