In a significant stride towards elephant conservation, the Odisha Government in partnership with the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) launched a ‘Gaj Utsav’ campaign here on Wednesday.
The event witnessed the presence of distinguished dignitaries such as Forest and Environment Minister Pradip Kumar Amat, PCCF and CWLW, Odisha Forest Department Sushil Kumar Popli, PCCF and HoFF, Forest Department Debidutt Biswal, Additional Chief Secretary, Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Satyabrata Sahu alongside other esteemed guests.
The launch ceremony was marked by the unveiling of six elephant art pieces handcrafted by local artisans. This was followed by a symbolic baton handover from Minister Amat to Dhenkanal DFO Sumit Kar, Collective Initiation For Social Solidarity (CISS) NGO Bijaya Dash and Chief of Conservation, Wildlife Trust of India, Dr Sandeep Tiwari. This unique Public-Private Partnership will take forward the vision of bringing the Gajah (elephant) to the Prajah (public) through the elephant districts of the State.
The event showcased a series of engaging activities including cultural performances, a cycle rally, origami and storytelling workshops for students and informative sessions—all designed to highlight the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures and their habitats. It concluded with a media panel discussion on "Sensitive and Responsible Wildlife Journalism.”
