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The Odisha government added Gupteshwar forest division to the Biodiversity Heritage Site making it fourth in the biodiversity heritage site from the state.

Gupteswar Forest in Odisha Declared as Bio-Diversity Heritage Site

The state govt has asked the Odisha Biodiversity Board to prepare a long-term plan for intensive conservation and development of the forest.

• An amount of Rs 35 lakh has been provided to prepare an action plan and awareness-building activities in the localities.

What Is a Biodiversity Heritage Site?

• Biodiversity heritage site is a unique conservation approach recognized under section 37 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
• Biodiversity Heritage Sites are well-defined areas that are unique, ecologically fragile ecosystems. 
• They are spread over terrestrial, coastal, inland, and marine waters having biodiversity as well as: 
  • Domesticated species
  • High endemism
  • Rare and threatened species, keystone species, species of evolutionary significance, wild ancestors of domesticated/ cultivated species.
  • Fossil beds Cultural, ethical, or aesthetic values for maintaining cultural diversity, with or without long human association with them.

Criteria For Identification of Biodiversity Heritage Site

• Areas that contain a mosaic of natural, semi-natural, and manmade habitats, which together contain a significant diversity of life forms.
• Areas that contain significant domesticated biodiversity components and or representative agro-ecosystem with ongoing agricultural practices that sustain this diversity.
• Areas that are significant from a biodiversity point of view as also important cultural spaces such as sacred groves/trees and sites, or other large community conserved areas.
• Areas including very small ones that offer refuge or corridors for threatened and endemic fauna and flora, such as community conserved areas or urban greens and wetlands.
• Areas that provide habitats, aquatic or terrestrial, for seasonal migrant species for feeding and breeding.
• Areas that are maintained as preservation plots by the research wing of the Forest department.
• Medicinal Plant Conservation Areas.

Significance of Biodiversity Heritage Site

• Ecological Security: Loss of biodiversity and bioresources show an increasing trend mainly due to human activities. 
  • Therefore, it is necessary to instill and nurture conservation ethics in the community.
• To Combat Climate Issues: BHS plays a crucial role in conservation which is particularly important in the face of increasing threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species.
• Cultural Heritage: BHS is associated with traditional knowledge and practices. Recognizing and protecting these sites helps to preserve cultural heritage and traditions.
• Maintenance of Ecosystem Services: BHS provides a range of essential ecosystem services, such as clean air and water, pollination, and flood control. 

News Source: Onmanorama and Indian Express