Sundargarh: The Sagarpali Van Suraksha Samiti (VSS) in Sundargarh district has been conferred with the prestigious Biju Patnaik Award for exemplary contributions to forest protection. Recognised as the best Van Surakhya Samiti in Odisha, Sagarpali VSS received a trophy and Rs 1 lakh cash award at the state-level Van Mahotsav programme held recently at Dumduma government high school campus in Bhubaneswar.
Presenting the award, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi commended the Sagarpali VSS for its dedication and pioneering efforts in environmental conservation and community development. Set up in Sagarpali, a small village in Sundargarh district nestled within Mangaspur gram panchayat of Tangarpali panchayat samiti, this VSS has a rich history of forest conservation, spanning over 204 years. The journey formally began in 1993-94 when Sagarpali VSS was registered following proactive measures by the Sagar Youth Club against deforestation in 1975. The transformation of the barren ‘Kurladungri’ hill into a lush green area stands testament to the dedication and collaborative efforts of Sagarpali VSS with the Forest department and a local NGO, a press release stated. The impact of Sagarpali VSS extends beyond environmental conservation. Through initiatives supported by the Odisha Forestry Development Project-II (OFSDP-II), the village has witnessed significant socio-economic development. Programs promoting dairy farming, turmeric cultivation, vermicomposting, mushroom cultivation, and millet cultivation have not only reduced dependency on forest resources but also empowered local women and improved the economic condition of all 130 families in the village.
Moreover, Sagarpali VSS has been proactive in raising awareness about forest fire prevention and wildlife protection, organizing community-led initiatives like ‘Shramdaan’ for forest and plantation development. The village has also pioneered the innovative ‘muthi dhana system’, where every household contributes paddy monthly towards forest development. Ramasamy P, Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (RCCF), Rourkela, heaped praises on Sagarpali VSS for its outstanding achievement, and said, “Your efforts in promoting sustainable forestry practices and fostering a deeper connection between people and nature are truly commendable.” Sundargarh DFO Pradeep Mirase attributed the success to cooperation and unity. Mirase has recommended Sagarpali VSS for a state-level award and extended his heartfelt congratulations to the villagers and all involved for the exceptional achievement.
According to information, the Sundargarh Forest division has created a unique record by bagging the best VSS award at state level two times in the last three years. In 2022-23, Jhurimal VSS had won the best state-level VSS award.