Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha is set to host the second edition of the two-day Indian Bison Fest on 8 March at Zeropoint. The event will show the growing presence of the Indian bison, locally called Gayala, in the Debrigarh-Hirakud landscape. It will bring together students, volunteers, researchers and nature lovers for conservation awareness and eco-tourism activities.
Festival Highlights
The programme will begin with expert talks on gaur behaviour, habitat and conservation efforts. A wildlife film screening will also be held. Participants will then join a guided gaur safari inside the sanctuary. The expanded format includes night camping, making the event a more immersive experience.
Nature and Wildlife Activities
The evening schedule will feature stargazing over the sanctuary and the Hirakud wetland. Prominent constellations such as Saptarishi Mandal and Orion can be observed clearly from the area. The next morning will include trekking, a cruise ride and a visit to Bat Island, which is home to more than 1,000 fruit bats or flying foxes.
Gaur Population Growth
The festival comes amid encouraging conservation results. The latest gaur census, conducted in January, recorded 848 animals, an increase of 190 in one year. Of these, 235 were juveniles below two years of age, showing breeding success and healthy herd dynamics. Debrigarh is emerging as an important conservation landscape for Indian bison in eastern India.
Conservation and Eco-tourism
Ongoing efforts include habitat management, grassland restoration, wetland management and systematic population monitoring. The sanctuary is seen as a potential source population for gaur conservation in India. The first edition of the festival drew over 500 participants and also showed how eco-tourism linked to bison conservation can support local employment.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026