Dikhyaa Mohanty 
The Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia informed the Odisha Assembly in writing on Tuesday that the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red Data Book has identified 54 endangered species, including 17 species of reptiles, 15 species of birds, and 22 species of mammals. The Minister informed the House that the state has established 19 sanctuaries, 1 national park, 2 tiger reserves, 3 elephant reserves, and 1 biosphere reserve in order to safeguard wild creatures in their natural habitat.
In order to stop poaching and keep an eye on the movements of suspected poachers, Singkhuntia reported that anti-poaching and anti-smuggling squads outfitted with cars, weapons, and communication networks have been stationed at strategic locations. In a similar vein, he continued, forest field employees are receiving training on how to acquire intelligence better to stop the poaching of wild animals and how to handle the discovery and processing of wildlife cases to guarantee greater conviction rates.
He added that a round-the-clock control room has been established in forest divisions, circles, and headquarters level to receive public input on wildlife matters (‘Vana Samrakshana Samiti’) and members of the eco-development committee. Additionally, school students are being encouraged to collaborate with the Forest department to preserve wildlife and lessen conflicts between humans and elephants.
