The second edition of the Indian Bison Fest was organised at Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, celebrating the conservation success of the Indian bison (gaur), locally known as “Gayala.” The event was organised by the Hirakud Wildlife Division to promote awareness about wildlife conservation and the increasing population of gaur in the Debrigarh–Hirakud landscape.
The festival brought together students, researchers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, volunteers and local villagers to highlight the ecological importance of the gaur and encourage community participation in conservation efforts.
Key Highlights of Indian Bison Fest
More than 600 participants from across western Odisha attended the event, including nature enthusiasts, students and members of local communities. The festival focused on raising awareness about the importance of conserving the Indian bison population, which has been steadily increasing in the Debrigarh region.
The programme included:
- Expert discussions and lectures on the ecology and conservation of the Indian bison
- Screening of wildlife documentaries related to gaur and forest ecosystems
- Recognition of frontline forest personnel, with awards given to outstanding foresters and forest guards for their role in wildlife protection
- Night camping, introduced as a special feature this year to allow participants to experience the wilderness and understand forest ecology more closely.
The event also highlighted the role of community involvement and forest staff efforts in ensuring the successful conservation of the gaur population.
Significance of Indian Bison Fest
The Indian Bison Fest at Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary serves as an important platform for:
- raising public awareness about gaur conservation
- recognising the work of forest frontline staff
- encouraging community participation in wildlife protection
- promoting eco-tourism and environmental education.
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the important wildlife habitats in Odisha, located in the Bargarh district. The sanctuary lies close to the Hirakud Dam, which is the longest dam in India and the longest earthen dam in the world, constructed across the Mahanadi River.
The sanctuary consists mainly of mixed and dry deciduous forests and supports a rich diversity of flora and fauna.
Vegetation and Flora
The forest vegetation includes important tree species such as:
- Sal
- Asana
- Bija
- Aanla
- Dhaura.
Wildlife
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary hosts a variety of wild animals including:
- Indian Leopard
- Sloth Bear
- Chousingha
- Sambar Deer
- Gaur (Indian bison)
The sanctuary forms part of the Debrigarh–Hirakud landscape, which is emerging as an important habitat for large herbivores in eastern India.
Rising Gaur Population in Debrigarh
Recent wildlife census data indicates a significant increase in the gaur population within the sanctuary.
The January 2026 wildlife census recorded 848 gaurs, which represents an increase of 190 individuals compared to the previous year. The growing gaur population in the Debrigarh–Hirakud landscape demonstrates how community involvement, strong protection measures and habitat management can contribute to successful wildlife conservation.
An important indicator of healthy population growth is the presence of juveniles. About 235 individuals are juveniles below two years of age, forming nearly 30% of the total population. This high juvenile ratio suggests healthy breeding patterns and stable herd dynamics, confirming that the Debrigarh–Hirakud landscape is becoming a stronghold for gaur conservation.
In Odisha’s forests, the two major mega herbivores present in the wild are elephants and Indian bison.
Indian Bison (Gaur)
The Gaur, commonly called the Indian bison, is the largest living wild bovine species in the world and the tallest species of wild cattle found in India.
Key Characteristics
- Scientific name: Bos gaurus
- Known as: Indian bison
- Habitat: Forest ecosystems of South and Southeast Asia
- Height: Up to about 2 metres at the shoulder
- Diet: Primarily herbivorous grazing animal, feeding mainly in the early morning and late evening.
Globally, the gaur population is estimated at 13,000–30,000 individuals, with around 85% of the population present in India.
Distribution of Gaur
The gaur is native to South and Southeast Asia, and in India it is found mainly in forested landscapes such as:
- Nagarhole National Park
- Bandipur National Park
- Biligirirangana Hills
- Nilgiris
They are also found in countries like Myanmar and Thailand.
Gaur typically inhabit evergreen forests and moist deciduous forests, but they can also adapt to dry deciduous forests. However, they generally avoid very high altitudes and are rarely found above 6,000 feet in the Himalayas.
Conservation Status
| Category | Status |
| International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List | Vulnerable |
| CITES | Appendix I |
| Wildlife Protection Act 1972 | Schedule I |
These protections recognise the gaur as a species requiring strong conservation measures.
Threats to the Gaur Population
Despite conservation efforts, gaur populations face several challenges:
Habitat Loss
- Deforestation, commercial plantations and destruction of grasslands reduce available grazing areas.
Food Scarcity
- The spread of invasive plant species and grazing by domestic cattle can reduce food resources.
Poaching
- Gaurs are sometimes hunted for meat and commercial value.
Human–Wildlife Conflict
- As forests shrink, gaurs increasingly come into contact with nearby human settlements.