In a significant development, the Odisha government on Thursday officially declared Similipal in Mayurbhanj district as a National Park, under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

“A landmark step towards Viksit Bharat, Viksit Odisha! Similipal is now officially a National Park - the 107th in India and the largest in #Odisha at 845.70 sq km. This long-awaited declaration strengthens our ecological legacy, uplifts tribal aspirations, and reaffirms Odisha’s commitment to sustainable development,” posted on the ‘X’ handle of the Chief Minister’s Office.