Tribal Woman Maithilee Bhue Leads Forest Conservation in Odisha
| Aspect | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Name & Background | Maithilee Bhue, a 40-year-old tribal woman from Dhodrokusum village, near Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Sambalpur, Odisha. |
| Recognition | Featured in PM Modi's 137th Mann Ki Baat for forest conservation and eco-tourism efforts. |
| Achievements | - First tribal woman from Dhodrokusum to join Debrigarh eco-tourism (2023).- Shifted from forest extraction to conservation-based livelihood.- Helped educate children and support family. |
| Community Impact | - Encouraged villagers to avoid deforestation, collect only dry wood.- Dhodrokusum declared a Green Village.- Inspired 20 fringe villages to adopt conservation-linked livelihoods.- Village selected for women-managed tribal homestays. |
| Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary | - Location: Bargarh district, Odisha, near Hirakud Dam (Mahanadi River).- Vegetation: Mixed & dry deciduous forests (Sal, Asana, Bija, Aanla, Dhaura).- Fauna: Indian leopard, sloth bear, chousingha, sambar, gaur, wild boar, dhole.- Wintering ground for migratory birds. |