Rescued Baby Orangutans in Odisha Under Expert Care

Five baby orangutans rescued from the Bichitrapur Badapahi forest in Balasore’s Bhogarai block have found a safe haven at Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar.

To ensure their health and rehabilitation, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Prem Kumar Jha, has constituted a five‑member technical committee.

The panel includes experts from Mysuru Zoo, Wildlife Institute of India (Dehradun), OUAT (Bhubaneswar), National Zoological Park (New Delhi), and the Director of Nandankanan Zoo as convenor.

The committee will advise on care, health, and management, with authority to consult national and international specialists. Initially appointed for six months, the tenure may be extended if required.

Meanwhile, Odisha’s Special Task Force (STF) is investigating how the orangutans reached the coastal forests.

Authorities suspect the involvement of an international wildlife smuggling syndicate. A hotel owner from Digha and his son are prime suspects and remain absconding.

Law enforcement has intensified efforts to track them and dismantle the trafficking network.

This case underscores both the urgent need for specialised wildlife care and the growing threat of illegal animal trafficking in the region.