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Odisha’s Barbara forest set for ecotourism push

Published: 18th Apr, 2022

Context

The government has decided to open Barbara Forest in Odisha for public to boost eco-tourism.

Ecotourism

According to The International Ecotourism Society (TIES), ecotourism can be defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education”. 

About

About Barbara forest

  • The Barbara forest is located near Chilika Lake in coastal Odisha touching three districts Khordha, Nayagarh and Ganjam.
    • It is about 5 kms away from Banapur, an ancient Buddhist heritage site.
  • It is dubbed as Asia’s largest teak and sal forest.
  • It is the only forest in India guarded by the jawans of Central Reserve Police Force (for protecting forest resources).
  • The thick forests of Barbara are inhabited by giant squirrels, making it a major contender to become a sanctuary for giant squirrels.
  • One can find other species like sambar, deer, mouse deer and bison in the forest.

The name story

  • It is named after a British woman, Barbara who had been killed by a tiger in the late 19th century while she was with her husband on a hunting expedition.
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