Similipal Tiger Reserve

The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha has recently implemented an advanced surveillance system, installing 100-150 AI-enabled cameras to monitor and protect its wildlife.

• Helped in arresting 96 poachers and seizing 86 country-made guns in the last 10 months.
• Recent Success: 6 poachers arrested for hunting a mouse deer (February 16, 2025).
• About Similipal Tiger Reserve: Located in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha (Northern India).

o Establishment: Declared a Tiger Reserve (1956), included under Project Tiger (1973).

o Area: 2,750 sq km (One of India's largest tiger reserves).

• Biodiversity: Flora, 1,076 plant species from 102 families & 96 orchid species recorded.
• Fauna: Mammals include tiger, Asian elephant, gaur, chausingha (four-horned antelope).
• Geography: Hilly Terrain and undulating with dense forests & grasslands.

o Major Peaks: Khairiburu & Meghasani.