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Science
Orangutans Spotted in Odisha Forest, Government Launches Probe
✍️ The Hindu
🗓 08 Sep 2026, 06:37 PM
👁 39
Authorities have confirmed the presence of non‑native orangutans in a forest in Odisha and have ordered a formal investigation.
Forest officials in Odisha reported the unexpected sighting of orangutans, a primate native to Southeast Asia, within a state forest.
The claim was verified after photographs and DNA samples were examined, leading the wildlife department to state that the species is not indigenous to India.
Both central and state governments have instructed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to initiate a probe to trace how the primates arrived, evaluate any ecological impact, and advise corrective measures.
Investigators will also examine possibilities of illegal wildlife trade or accidental release as the source of the animals.
The episode highlights growing concerns over exotic species entering Indian ecosystems and the need for tighter monitoring.
The claim was verified after photographs and DNA samples were examined, leading the wildlife department to state that the species is not indigenous to India.
Both central and state governments have instructed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to initiate a probe to trace how the primates arrived, evaluate any ecological impact, and advise corrective measures.
Investigators will also examine possibilities of illegal wildlife trade or accidental release as the source of the animals.
The episode highlights growing concerns over exotic species entering Indian ecosystems and the need for tighter monitoring.