Forests of Odisha

Learning Outcomes:

1. Understand the types and extent of forests in Odisha.
2. Learn about the forest classification based on legal status and vegetation type.
3. Gain insight into forest cover, forest resources, and their geographical distribution.
4. Recognize key challenges and government initiatives for forest conservation in Odisha.

Overview of Odisha’s Forests
Odisha’s forests are rich in biodiversity, offering resources like timber, pulp, herbs, fuelwood, and fodder. They play a crucial role in soil conservation, pollution reduction, and precipitation regulation. As per the India State of Forest Report, 2017, Odisha’s forest area stands at 61,204.17 sq km, accounting for 39.31% of its geographical territory.

Classification of Forests in Odisha

Recorded Forest Area: Odisha’s forest area is categorized into three types:

1. Reserved Forest: Allocated permanently for timber or other forest produce. Grazing and cultivation rights are permitted. Comprises 58.90% of the total forest area.
2. Protected Forest: Limited grazing and cultivation rights with certain restrictions. It forms 40.75% of the state’s forest area.
3. Unclassed Forest: Inaccessible and unoccupied forest lands, accounting for 0.35% of the total forest area.

Forest Cover in Odisha
The forest cover of Odisha, as of 2017, is 51,345 sq km (35.54% of the state’s geographical area), which is 6.90% of India’s total forest cover. This includes:

1. Very Dense Forest (VDF): 6,967 sq km.
2. Moderately Dense Forest (MDF): 21,370 sq km.
3. Open Forest (OF): 23,008 sq km.

District-Wise Forest Cover
A comprehensive study shows varying forest covers across districts. Notably:

• Kandhamal has the highest percentage (67.22%) of forest cover relative to its geographical area.
• Gajapati and Rayagada also exhibit significant forest coverage at 58.27% and 44.2% respectively.
• Bhadrak has the lowest forest cover, constituting only 2.99% of its geographical area.

Forest Types in Odisha
Forests in Odisha are classified based on relief, rainfall, and vegetation types into four primary categories:

1. Northern Tropical Semi-Evergreen Forests:

• Found in lower hills and valleys at elevations above 600 meters.
• Located in forest divisions like Dhenkanal, Puri, Mayurbhanj, and Koraput.
• Important tree species: Mango, Arjun, Champa. Notable for the absence of bamboo growth.

1. Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests:

• The most extensive forest type, covering about 80% of Odisha’s forests.
• Found in districts like Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar.
• Main species: Sal, Male Bamboo (Dandrocalmus strictus), Thorny Bamboo. Sal forms the top canopy in these forests.

1. Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests:

• Second in abundance, located in the drier central and western regions like Balangir and Kalahandi.
• Dominant species: Teak, Salia Bamboo.

1. Tidal Mangrove Forests:

• Smallest in area, primarily in coastal regions like Bhitarkanika and Mahanadi Delta.
• Key species: Sundari, Hental. Crucial for protecting coastal areas against cyclones and tidal surges.

Forest Resources in Odisha
Odisha’s forests provide numerous resources, contributing to both the economy and ecology:

1. Timber: Includes Sal, Teak, Piasal, Kangad, and Sandalwood. Southern Odisha is particularly rich in Sal and bamboo species.
2. Tobacco: Odisha ranks third in Kendu leaves production, supporting the paper industry.
3. Orchids: Approximately 120 species, including several rare ones, found mainly in Simlipal and Mahendragiri.
4. Medicinal Plants: Over 200 medicinal plants identified, especially in Gandhamardan and Simlipal hills. Important plants include Swasamari, Kochila, Sarpagandha.
5. Aromatic Plants:

• Kiya: Found along the Ganjam coast.
• Sal resin: Used in perfumes and medicines.
• Vetiver: Grown in swampy areas; roots used in perfumes.
• Lemongrass: Mainly for thatching purposes.

Forest Management in Odisha
The government has established multiple departments and agencies for forest conservation:

1. Department of Forest and Environment: Focuses on forest protection, conservation, and increasing forest cover, adhering to the National Forest Policy, 1988, and Odisha Forest Sector Vision 2020.
2. Odisha Forest Development Corporation Limited (OFDC): Formed in 1990 to scientifically exploit forest resources, ensure fair wages, and promote forest-based industries.
3. Odisha State Forest Department: Active since 1883-84, working towards ecological balance, conserving natural forests, and expanding afforestation efforts.

Government Initiatives
Odisha has launched various programs to conserve and expand its forest cover:

1. Sabuja Odisha Mission: Aims to enhance green cover, conserve bamboo forests, and sustainably manage medicinal plants.
2. Odisha Bamboo Development Agency (OBDA): Promotes bamboo cultivation, especially on private lands.
3. State CAMPA: Established in 2009 to focus on conservation and afforestation activities.
4. e-GreenWatch: A web-based monitoring portal to oversee activities funded by CAMPA.
5. Ama Jungle Yojana (AJY): Supports forest restoration and the livelihood of forest communities.
6. Ekamravan: A medicinal plant garden developed at Bindusagar Lake, Bhubaneswar.
7. State Medicinal Plant Board: Encourages the conservation, use, and marketing of medicinal plants.

Important Note: The Bhitarkanika mangroves serve as a crucial ecological barrier, protecting coastal areas from natural calamities like cyclones and tidal surges.

Challenges Facing Odisha’s Forests
Odisha’s forests face numerous challenges threatening their sustainability:

1. Podu Cultivation: Shifting cultivation, prevalent in subdivisions like Bhuyia Pidh, leads to deforestation and soil erosion.
2. Agricultural Expansion: Rubber, tea, and coffee cultivation, particularly in Koraput and Keonjhar, reduces forest cover and contributes to surface runoff.
3. Mining: The Eastern Ghats, rich in medicinal and economical plants, are under threat due to mining activities, affecting forest ecosystems.

Forest of the Eastern Ghats
The Eastern Ghats host unique forest ecosystems, particularly the Pats or Mulis hilltops with rich sub-tropical vegetation. However, deforestation due to human activities has led to habitat loss and ecological degradation.

Important Note: The Eastern Ghats’ forests are not only ecologically rich but also house medicinal plants vital for the local economy and traditional healthcare.

Comparative Table of Forest Types

Forest Development Departments
The primary departments involved in forest management in Odisha include:

1. Department of Forest and Environment: Oversees forest conservation and sustainable management.
2. Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC): Handles scientific exploitation of forest resources and supports forest-based industries.
3. State Forest Department: Aims to restore ecological balance, conserve natural forests, and address the needs of local populations.

Important Note: The Odisha Forest Sector Vision 2020 guides sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation efforts in the state.

MCQ for Revision:

Which forest type occupies the largest area in Odisha?

1. Northern Tropical Semi-Evergreen Forest
2. Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest
3. Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest
4. Tidal Mangrove Forest

Correct Answer: 2. Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest