Special on World Otter Day: Evidence of Otter Presence Found in Water Sources of Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve

A significant achievement has emerged for Chhattisgarh on the occasion of World Otter Day. Authentic presence of otters has been recorded in the water sources of Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve in Gariyaband district. This success has been possible due to the guidance of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Mr. Arun Kumar Pandey and the joint research efforts of the Forest Department and Chhattisgarh Vigyan Sabha. Clear images of otters have been obtained from camera traps installed with the cooperation of Gariyaband Forest Division DFO Mr. Varun Jain. This confirms that the aquatic ecosystem of Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is healthy and serves as a safe habitat for rare wildlife. Otters are bio-indicators of healthy water sources Otters are sensitive wildlife that inhabit clean and safe water sources. They are considered an important bio-indicator of the quality of rivers, ponds, and other freshwater sources. Their presence indicates the ecological balance and richness of biodiversity in an area. Globally, there are 13 species of otters, of which three species are found in India: the Eurasian otter, the smooth-coated otter, and the Asian small-clawed otter. Notably, the presence of all three species has been recorded in Chhattisgarh, which is a testament to the state's rich biodiversity. Objective of World Otter Day World Otter Day is celebrated every year on May 27. Its objective is to raise awareness about the conservation of otter species and draw attention to the threats they face. Loss of natural habitat, pollution of water sources, climate change, poaching and trafficking, and human-wildlife conflict are major threats to otters. Continuous research for conservation in Chhattisgarh Continuous work has been underway in Chhattisgarh since 2021 for otter conservation. Subsequently, under the guidance of the state government, Chhattisgarh Vigyan Sabha was entrusted with the responsibility of research and conservation studies on otters. Under the leadership of the Chhattisgarh Biodiversity Board, information regarding the presence, behavior, habitat, and reproduction of otters is being collected through camera traps and field studies in Korba, Kanker, Gariyaband, and Bastar divisions. The study report prepared under the leadership of Chhattisgarh Vigyan Sabha researcher Mrs. Nidhi Singh has been submitted to the Forest Department. The study has provided evidence of otter presence in various districts of the state. Conservation hopes raised by public awareness Continuous awareness campaigns are being conducted by the Forest Department and Vigyan Sabha in schools, colleges, and rural areas. The positive impact of this is that local fishermen and villagers are now more sensitive towards otter conservation, and information about their rescue is being provided by the people themselves from many areas. Forest Department's appeal: Keep water sources clean The Forest Department and Chhattisgarh Vigyan Sabha have appealed to the general public to keep water sources clean and not to litter plastic, glass, or other waste in natural areas. In case of forest fires, inform the Forest Department immediately. Experts believe that otter conservation is not solely the responsibility of the Forest Department but is possible only through community participation. The future of this rare wildlife can be secured only by protecting a clean environment and safe water sources.