Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik Announces Exclusive Black Tiger Safari Near Similipal

Odisha is gearing up to offer wildlife enthusiasts a unique experience with the establishment of an exclusive Melanistic Tiger Safari near Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik took to Twitter to share the exciting news, highlighting that Odisha is the sole home to the rare and majestic black tigers.

Glad to announce that #Odisha is setting up an exclusive Melanistic Tiger Safari near Similipal Tiger Reserve in #Mayurbhanj. Tourists and visitors can now have a glimpse of the rare and majestic species found only in Odisha. pic.twitter.com/h3g2ep8tui

— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) January 24, 2024

The Similipal Tiger Reserve has gained prominence for harbouring a distinctive population of melanistic tigers, a captivating spectacle in India’s wilderness. According to Minister of State for Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Ashwini Kumar Choubey, all 10 identified melanistic tigers in the 2022 All India Tiger Estimation are residents of Similipal, making it their exclusive habitat in the country.

Choubey emphasized the conservation efforts in place, citing the National Tiger Conservation Authority’s issuance of a standard operating procedure for the active management and rehabilitation of tigers in Similipal. The reserve has earned recognition as a unique genetic cluster for conservation based on its genetic composition.

Funding for Similipal’s conservation initiatives is sourced through the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (CSS-IDWH) scheme. The allocation for the fiscal year 2022-23 stands at Rs 659.82 lakh, reflecting a slight decrease from the previous year. Despite the reduction, MP Prashanta Nanda sought details on black tigers nationwide, particularly in Similipal and Kandhamal. The minister assured ongoing government action for the protection of black tigers, acknowledging the marginal decrease in allocated funds for the latest fiscal year.

As the state prepares to unveil the Melanistic Tiger Safari, tourists and visitors can anticipate a rare glimpse of these majestic creatures against the backdrop of Similipal’s scenic beauty.