Bargarh, August 30: The local community and staff at the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary expressed their joy after Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned their region in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ program. In the 137th episode aired on Sunday, Modi highlighted the contributions of Maithili Bhue from Odisha towards forest conservation.
Residents from various villages watched the program and reported that the Prime Minister’s mention motivated them to work harder for wildlife and forest preservation. They believe this recognition will help garner more support for conservation efforts.
Maithili joined the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in 2023 and has actively participated in initiatives aimed at making homestays and villages plastic-free. She has played a crucial role in uniting local people to keep Debrigarh clean and promote the protection of forests and wildlife.
In a male-dominated society, Maithili has earned praise for her dedication, hard work, and discipline. She has also encouraged and trained others to contribute to conservation efforts.
Anshupragya Dash, the DFO of Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, stated in an interview that all community members and staff are grateful to PM Modi. His acknowledgment of their community has brought immense happiness. The entire village watched ‘Mann Ki Baat’, and this will inspire them to work harder in the future, benefiting the organization and enhancing wildlife sanctuary protection.
Dash added that Maithili became involved in Debrigarh eco-tourism in 2023. Previously, they established a Green Village initiative, where she played a key role in ensuring every household had toilets, dustbins, and gradually reduced plastic usage. She has also worked to empower every woman in the village. Since joining eco-tourism, she has guided women to participate actively in this sector, showcasing excellent leadership.
During the episode, PM Modi remarked, “There are many people around us who start with small efforts, which can lead to significant changes in many lives. In Odisha’s Debrigarh, there is a village called ‘Dhodarokusum’. A few years ago, Maithili Bhue would go to the forest almost daily for firewood, Mahua, and Kendu leaves, fulfilling many needs of her family from the forest. However, after joining Debrigarh eco-tourism, her relationship with the forest transformed. Now, forest conservation has become a means of livelihood for her.”
PM Modi further stated, “This change in Maithili’s life has inspired other women as well. Today, over 60 women are involved in forest conservation. Some are responsible for wildlife protection, others are engaged in grassland development, while some contribute to eco-tourism activities. Maithili and her sisters from Debrigarh have shown that we can protect nature while also achieving prosperity in life. Their efforts serve as a great inspiration for all of us.”
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