Khordha Environmentalist Honoured for Wildlife Conservation Efforts ;

Debashish Mohanty recognised for five years of work in wildlife protection, biodiversity preservation and social welfare.

Dillip Kumar Pattnaik

KHORDHA, OCTOBER 9: Recognising his sustained commitment to wildlife protection, environmental conservation and community welfare, Debashish Mohanty has received the Sub-Divisional Chief Minister’s Wildlife Conservation Award for his contributions over the past five years.

Mohanty has been actively working with a group of local youths in Khordha to protect wildlife and birds, provide food and water for them, and promote initiatives aimed at preserving the natural environment. Through these community-based efforts, he has sought to foster environmental awareness and encourage people to participate in conservation activities.
In coordination with the Forest Department, he has also been engaged in creating awareness among college students about wildlife protection, biodiversity conservation and the need to maintain ecological balance. His initiatives seek to sensitise young people to environmental challenges and encourage them to take an active role in safeguarding nature.
Beyond conservation, Mohanty has extended his activities to various social welfare initiatives. Without government assistance, he has supported elderly people in need, promoted awareness about the safety and protection of women and girls, and helped underprivileged students pursue their education. He has also contributed to initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Odisha’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.
Emphasising the need to address the growing challenges of wildlife conservation, Mohanty has advocated the use of modern technology and innovative approaches to strengthen protection measures while reducing human-wildlife conflict. He believes that scientific research, technological interventions and greater public participation can help ensure the safety of both wildlife and local communities.
He has expressed hope that government support would enable him to expand his conservation activities, particularly in research, the adoption of modern wildlife management techniques and the implementation of innovative measures to protect biodiversity.
At a time when habitat degradation, environmental pollution and the loss of biodiversity pose serious challenges, recognition of grassroots conservation efforts assumes particular significance. Community participation and sustained awareness-building are increasingly important in ensuring the protection of wildlife and the preservation of fragile ecosystems.
Mohanty’s recognition highlights the contribution that individuals and local youth groups can make towards environmental protection through sustained voluntary efforts. His work also underscores the importance of collaboration among communities, government agencies and environmental activists in promoting harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.

The award is expected to encourage greater participation by young people and nature enthusiasts in conservation initiatives and strengthen efforts to preserve the region’s natural heritage for future generations.