To observe the functioning of the Waldenwoods Eco-Village established in Kantamalia village of Bhuban block in Dhenkanal district, which is still in its formative stage, an exposure visit programme was organised by the Orissa Environmental Society.
The team observed that for attaining self-sufficiency and implementing ecological goals of sustainability, the ecovillage has undertaken cultivation of vegetables, fruits and crops by organic farming, rearing of cows and poultry, plantation of various plant species and ornamental plants along roadsides, rainwater harvesting measures, solar-energy fencing, waste-treatment facilities by composting and abandoning single-use plastics.
Attempt has been made to encourage the inhabitants to adopt the traditional forms of community living in the built up cottages within its premises. It has also provisions of accommodating visitors from outside who intend to enjoy life for a while in such a magnificent, natural setting.
After observing all the aspects of the eco-village, plantation of rare, endangered medicinal plants was undertaken.
A meeting was organised at the end of the visit, which was presided over by OES president Dr Sundara Narayan Patro. At the beginning, secretary Dr Jaya Krushna Panigrahi narrated the goals of the ecovillage and opined that focus needs to be on lessening the mounting stress on human mind as well as on mother nature by changing mindset and lifestyle.
Founder-Director of this ecovillage, Er Ramkrishna Dash narrated his journey and the motto of providing a sustainable, healthy living place as well as diminishing the detrimental impacts on nature.
Newly elected local sarpanch, Madhab Chandra Das while explaining the significance of Panchayati Raj Diwas, expressed his desire to work for the protection of environment in his locality.
Prof Nirmal Chandra Dash opined that as half of the local population constitutes tribal people, they need to be partners of conservation efforts. He was also presented the patron certificate of the Society by the president.
Among others, Dr Pradeep Kumar Rath, Dr B Satyanarayan, Prof Ram Chandra Mishra, Prof B Sitaram Patro, Er Bimal Krushna Mishra, Raghunath Prusty, Ekadashi Nandi, poetess Swapna Behera and Sujata Mishra spoke.
Joint secretary Er Manoranjan Mishra offered the vote of thanks. Many environmentalists and nature-lovers attended the programme jointly organised by the OES and the Waldenwoods Ecovillage.