Exploring Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: India’s Premier Ecotourism Destination

Overview of Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Odisha, has garnered recognition as a model of community-driven ecotourism in India. Under the spotlight, Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, highlighted the sanctuary’s achievements, reflecting on its success in engaging local communities and fostering economic growth through tourism.

Community Engagement and Economic Impact

The active participation of local residents in ecotourism activities is a hallmark of Debrigarh, where approximately 85 families earn their livelihoods through various initiatives, including jungle safaris and bird-watching. The sanctuary generated an impressive revenue of Rs 5.11 crore in the fiscal year 2024-25, with all proceeds reinvested directly into community development and conservation initiatives.

Recognition from G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant

Amitabh Kant’s recent visit to Debrigarh showcased the sanctuary’s exemplary community participation. Kant, who previously served as the CEO of NITI Aayog, remarked on the superior management of the ecotourism project, emphasizing Debrigarh as a standout example compared to other ecotourism efforts across India. His experience during the visit strengthened the narrative of community involvement as a crucial factor in the project’s success.

Activities and Amenities for Tourists

Community members lead various activities that enhance the visitor experience at Debrigarh, including:

• Jungle Safaris
• Hirakud River Cruises
• Trekking and Hiking
• Kayaking
• Bird-watching

Additionally, accommodations include 20 cottages, six of which feature stargazing rooms with glass roofs, allowing tourists to enjoy the beauty of the night sky.

Economic Opportunities and Female Empowerment

According to forest officers, around 40% of those employed in the ecotourism site are women, who take on roles as safari drivers and guides, promoting gender inclusion within the community. Each community member can earn between Rs 13,000 to Rs 15,000 per month, significantly contributing to household incomes in the area.

Conservation and Community Benefits

Debrigarh follows strict ecotourism guidelines, ensuring that 35% of revenue supports local wages, while the remaining is allocated for infrastructure and village development. The revenue distribution model promotes sustainable practices, making the local community a key stakeholder in conservation. This approach ultimately fosters better protection of forest ecosystems and wildlife.

Sustainability Measures and Ecotourism Guidelines

Revenue management at Debrigarh is aligned with ecotourism principles, focusing on:

Adaptation of these guidelines ensures that all generated revenue feeds back into enhancing both community welfare and conservation efforts.

Final Thoughts

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary represents a shining example of how ecotourism can merge conservation with community development. Encouraging local engagement not only supports the economy but also strengthens wildlife protection efforts. As demonstrated here, ecotourism can provide significant benefits to both the environment and local communities.

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