Champua: A calf was born to a female elephant in the Ukhunda section of Champua forest range in Kendujhar district on Maha Ashtami, the Forest department said.
The calf was born near Kanjiasula at around 3am Sunday.
It has been named Durga in honour of the auspicious occasion of Durga Puja, Champua forest range officer Sagar Raj Naik said.
The herd previously comprised 28 elephants.
With the birth of Durga, its strength has increased to 29.
The calf is healthy and active and has been moving with its mother and the herd.
Forest personnel are keeping a close watch on the newborn calf and its mother to ensure their safety.
Naik has advised local residents not to approach the elephants.
The Champua, Bhagunda and Balibandh sections provide suitable habitat and adequate food for elephants, leading to the regular presence of herds in the area.
A similar arrival of an elephant calf was reported during Ganesh Puja earlier this year.
The birth of Durga during Navratri has brought joy to the local community, forest officials and environmentalists.
