Indian Bison Fest Debrigarh was held on March 8 at Zeropoint inside the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary. The two-day festival focuses on the conservation of the Indian bison, locally known as Gayala. Organized by the Hirakud Wildlife Division, the event brought together students, researchers, volunteers, and nature enthusiasts to celebrate the growing gaur population in the Debrigarh-Hirakud landscape.

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The festival aims to spread awareness about wildlife protection while highlighting the ecological importance of the Indian bison, scientifically known as Gaur.

Expanded Two-Day Immersive Programme

This year’s Indian Bison Fest Debrigarh introduced new activities to make the event more immersive. Night camping was added for the first time, allowing visitors to experience the sanctuary after sunset.

The program began with expert talks on gaur behaviour, habitat ecology, and conservation strategies. Participants also enjoyed wildlife film screenings and a guided gaur safari through the sanctuary. These activities helped visitors understand the natural habitat and lifestyle of the Indian bison.

Stargazing and Nature Exploration

Evening sessions featured a stargazing experience where visitors observed bright constellations such as Saptarishi Mandal and Orion above the sanctuary and the nearby Hirakud Reservoir wetland landscape.

On the second day, participants took part in trekking and a cruise ride around the reservoir. Visitors also explored Bat Island, home to more than 1,000 fruit bats, also known as flying foxes. These bats are important pollinators and seed dispersers that support forest ecosystems.

Rising Gaur Population in Debrigarh

The Indian Bison Fest Debrigarh coincided with positive conservation outcomes. The latest gaur census conducted in January recorded 848 animals in the sanctuary. This represents an increase of 190 gaurs within a year.

Among them, 235 are juveniles below two years of age, making up nearly 30 percent of the population. Wildlife experts say this strong juvenile presence reflects healthy breeding and stable herd growth in the sanctuary.

Eco-Tourism and Community Participation

The festival also highlights the role of eco-tourism in supporting conservation and local communities. The first edition of the event attracted over 500 participants from across Odisha, including members of Eco Development Committees (EDCs), students, teachers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Such initiatives encourage local employment opportunities while promoting community involvement in wildlife protection.

Strengthening a Conservation Landscape

With rising gaur numbers and continuous habitat management efforts such as grassland restoration and wetland conservation, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is emerging as a key conservation landscape for the Indian bison in eastern India.

Through awareness programs, scientific discussions, and eco-tourism activities, the Indian Bison Fest Debrigarh aims to strengthen public engagement and ensure long-term protection of this iconic species.