Chillika/Mangalajodi:The first national Chillika Bird festival was held at Mangalajodi Saturaday. The two-day event was inaugurated by minister of culture and Tourism Ashok Panda. Additional chief secretary forest and environment Suresh Mohapatra, prinicipal secretary Mona Sharma, Chilika Development authority chief executive Susanta Nanda were also present on the occasion.
Mangalajodi is a wonderful village situated on the northern banks of Chillika lagoon. It is known for its eco-tourism or as a breeding ground for birds. This wetland is home to 228 species of birds.
The welcome speech was delivered by director and additional secretary of tourism department Nitin Bhanudas Jawale. Addressing the delegates and environment scientists minister Ashok Panda said, “Mangalajodi has put Orissa on the world map. The change of heart by locals has turned them into protectors of innumerable birds.’
Seconding him Mona Sharma said, “The effective preservation of the wetland has proved the way for holding the very first bird fest. Such initiatives we are sure to make this event an international event in future.’
A photo exhibition was also inaugurated and a video called ‘Chillika the eternal beauty’ made on Chillika lagoon was also screened on the occasion. Besides two books, ‘Research and investigations in Chillika Lake’ and ‘Sylvan’ were released on the occasion.
The Mahavir Pakshi Suraksha Samiti was given a cash prize of Rs 10,001 and a trophy for their outstanding work to protect the endangered birds and to make Mangalajodi a wetland of international importance. (PNN)
