Odisha receives SC green-light to host world’s first melanistic tiger safari in Mayurbhanj

Plans for the world’s first melanistic (black) tiger safari in Mayurbhanj have received final clearance after the Supreme Court granted permission earlier this week, removing the last legal barrier that had stalled the project for months.

The safari, proposed at Manchabandha, around 10 km from Baripada, had already obtained mandatory approvals from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), but could not be executed due to a pending petition before the Apex Court.

Authorities confirmed that with the Court decision, Odisha can now proceed to operationalise the safari. Officials said the initiative will position Odisha at the forefront of wildlife tourism while also supporting a composite wildlife rescue ecosystem for eastern India.

Site Clearance Completed

Sources cited forest officials who said a survey team comprising representatives of NTCA, CZA and state wildlife authorities had shortlisted Manchabandha after a field assessment.

The safari will be developed over 200 hectares of selected land, including 100 hectares for tiger habitat and an additional 100 hectares for supporting facilities, such as a rescue centre, veterinary treatment unit, employee infrastructure and parking.

“We selected 200 hectares out of the 1,000 total hectares and submitted a proposal accordingly. This will be a composite facility and will include a rescue centre. We will progress further based on instructions from the PCCF,” informed Prakash Chandra Gugnani, RCCF, Baripada.

According to state officials, the Supreme Court has allowed the project with conditions restricting development to degraded or buffer land and requiring compliance with the Environment Protection Act, 1986 and related ECZ provisions to ensure no adverse impact on tiger conservation efforts.

Initial Release Plan: 5 Tigers From Two Zoos

Reports stated that as part of the first phase, wildlife authorities are preparing to bring three melanistic tigers from Nandankanan Zoological Park and two from Ranchi Zoo to the safari. These tigers will be acclimatised under supervision before being added to the display and conservation units.

Local residents and wildlife experts have welcomed the plan, calling it a boost to regional tourism and research.

“These tigers are the identity of Mayurbhanj. People visiting Baripada can now see them without travelling further to Similipal. This initiative will boost tourism and the economy,” said Jagdish Chandra, Manchabandha resident.

“Ever since melanistic tigers featured on the front page of National Geographic, demand from foreign tourists has increased. A safari here will attract significant numbers,” added Bijay Ketan Pattnaik, Wildlife Expert.

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Global Interest In Melanistic Tigers

Odisha’s sighting of melanistic tigers, mostly from the Similipal landscape, remains unique globally. With international attention already focused on the rare tiger gene, the safari is expected to accommodate both tourist demand and scientific interest. Wildlife officials also expect the rescue facility to serve as a resource hub for eastern India.

The project is currently in the preparatory phase, with state authorities coordinating next steps in compliance with the Supreme Court conditions. The Forest Department is expected to begin ground execution after a detailed implementation schedule is finalised.