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Odisha Unveils CM-GROW Initiative to Boost Wildlife Conservation Efforts

The Odisha government has introduced the CM-GROW programme to bolster wildlife conservation efforts through enhanced research and technology. Launched during the Wildlife Week celebrations, this initiative aims to install additional surveillance cameras in the Similipal Tiger Reserve and promote responsible ecotourism. The event highlighted the state's achievements in wildlife conservation and featured the release of a film on the biodiversity of the Eastern Ghats. With a commitment to supporting communities affected by wildlife interactions, the CM-GROW programme represents a significant advancement in Odisha's ecological preservation efforts.
By Ambika Singh Oct 3, 2026, 22:20 IST

Launch of CM-GROW Programme


Bhubaneswar: The government of Odisha has officially launched the CM-GROW initiative aimed at enhancing research and fortifying the scientific basis for wildlife conservation within the state.


The initiative was inaugurated by Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia, the Minister for Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, during the Wildlife Week celebrations held at the state level.


Wildlife Week, celebrated annually from October 2 to 8, emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation, research, ecological awareness, and responsible ecotourism.


Under the Chief Minister's Grant for Research on Odisha's Wildlife (CM-GROW), Singkhuntia announced plans to install an additional 300 AI-enabled and standard surveillance cameras in the Similipal Tiger Reserve located in Mayurbhanj district to monitor poaching activities and observe animal behavior.


Currently, there are 300 cameras operational in Similipal, with plans for another 300 to be added shortly.


During his address, the minister highlighted that Wildlife Week serves not only as a celebration of wildlife but also as a chance to strengthen the connection between humans and nature, reaffirming the commitment to wildlife conservation.


Odisha has made significant strides in wildlife conservation over the past two years, thanks to a scientific approach, modern technology, effective administrative measures, and the unwavering dedication of forest staff and local communities.


The event featured a video showcasing the achievements of the wildlife division and a presentation on wildlife awareness initiatives conducted throughout the state during the week.


Additionally, the programme included the unveiling of colored postcards and special covers, along with the online launch of various ecotourism destinations across the state.


These destinations include Peacock Valley and Nageswar Dam in the Chandaka Wildlife Division, sites in the Similipal North Wildlife Division, Karakhol in the Chilika Wildlife Division, Sambalpur Zoo, and visitor facilities in the Hirakud Wildlife Division.


Foundation stones were also virtually laid for several upcoming ecotourism projects, including Rajhans in the Chilika Wildlife Division, Rani Duduma in the Koraput Forest Division, Badmul in the Mahanadi Wildlife Division, Pentha in the Rajnagar Wildlife Division, and new amenities at Nandankanan Zoological Park.


A film titled 'The Biodiversity of Eastern Ghats' was premiered during the event, showcasing the ecological significance and biological diversity of the Eastern Ghats.


The celebration also included the distribution of sanction orders and cheques to individuals whose homes were severely impacted by wildlife, reaffirming the state's commitment to supporting those affected by human-wildlife conflicts.


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