Odisha Minister Confirms Orangutans to Stay at Nandankanan

Bhubaneswar: Five baby orangutans rescued from Balasore district will remain under the care of Nandankanan Zoological Park, Odisha Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia confirmed during his inspection of the facility.

The minister expressed satisfaction with the zoo’s quarantine arrangements, which include 24-hour monitoring, special diets, and rotation-based care teams.

The rescued animals—three males and two females aged between one and two years—are currently housed in a secure enclosure.

Authorities suspect wildlife trafficking, as orangutans are not native to India and are found in Malaysia, Indonesia, Borneo, and Sumatra.

Each animal carries an estimated international market value of ₹20–25 lakh.

The state government has requested the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) to investigate, with CCTV footage from airports, railway stations, and ports being examined to trace their entry route.

Future decisions regarding public display will be taken only after consultation with the Central Zoo Authority (CZA).

Senior officials, including PCCF (Wildlife) Prem Kumar Jha and Nandankanan Director Dr Manoj V. Nair, accompanied the minister during the inspection.