Debrigarh to Host 2nd Indian Bison Fest March 8, Celebrating Gaur Conservation Success

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary Gears Up for Second Indian Bison Fest

The  Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary  in Odisha will host the second edition of the two-day  'Indian Bison Fest'  on  March 8 at Zeropoint , celebrating the conservation of the Indian bison, locally known as  'Gayala'  . Organized by the  Hirakud Wildlife Division , the festival aims to bring together students, researchers, volunteers, and nature enthusiasts to highlight the remarkable recovery of the  gaur (Bos gaurus)  population in the Debrigarh-Hirakud landscape.

Expanded Two-Day Immersive Programme
This year's edition introduces  night camping , transforming the event into an immersive experience within the sanctuary. The programme will commence with  expert talks  on gaur behaviour, habitat ecology, and conservation strategies, followed by a  wildlife film screening  and guided  gaur safaris . Evening activities include a  stargazing session , offering clear views of constellations such as  Saptarishi Mandal (Ursa Major)  and  Orion  over the sanctuary and the scenic  Hirakud wetland . The second day will feature  trekking , a  cruise ride , and a visit to  Bat Island , home to over  1,000 fruit bats  (flying foxes), which visitors can observe from a safe distance.

Rising Gaur Population in Debrigarh
The festival coincides with encouraging conservation outcomes. The latest gaur census conducted in  January recorded 848 animals , reflecting a  net increase of 190 individuals within a single year . Notably,  235 were juveniles below two years of age , accounting for nearly  30 per cent of the population —a strong indicator of successful breeding and stable herd dynamics. Forest officials describe Debrigarh as an  emerging conservation stronghold for the Indian bison in eastern India . Ongoing management measures include  grassland restoration, wetland management, habitat improvement, and systematic population monitoring  to strengthen the sanctuary's ecological resilience.

Eco-Tourism and Community Participation
The inaugural edition of the festival last year attracted over  500 participants  from across Odisha, including members of  68 Eco Development Committees (EDCs)  , students and teachers from  37 nearby schools , youth volunteers, and wildlife enthusiasts. The initiative demonstrates how  eco-tourism linked to flagship species conservation  can generate local employment and foster meaningful community engagement. EDCs play a crucial role in supporting community-based conservation around protected areas, creating sustainable livelihoods while protecting biodiversity.

Strengthening a Conservation Landscape
With steady population growth and sustained habitat management, Debrigarh is emerging as a potential  source population for gaur conservation  in India. The Indian Bison Fest seeks to deepen public awareness, foster scientific engagement, and reinforce the sanctuary's role as a  secure breeding landscape  for this iconic species, listed as  Vulnerable  on the IUCN Red List.

Exam-Focused Important Facts:

• Species:  Indian bison, scientifically known as  gaur (Bos gaurus)  .

• Location:   Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary , near the  Hirakud reservoir  in  Odisha .

• Population:   848 gaurs  recorded in January 2026; net increase of  190 in one year ;