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Picture Courtesy: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/travel/odisha-gupteswar-forest-declared-as-fourth-biodiversity-heritage-site-in-state-101707740395367.html

Context: The Odisha government has officially designated the Gupteswar forest in Koraput district as the state's fourth Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS).

About Gupteswar Forest

• The forest finds its roots in the sacred groves traditionally revered by the local communities. These groves have been protected for generations, fostering a unique ecological balance.
• Recognizing its ecological significance, the Odisha government recognised Gupteswar Forest as the state's fourth Biodiversity Heritage Site, ensuring its long-term conservation and development.
• The forest is situated near the Gupteswar Shiva temple, lies in the Eastern Ghats mountain range.
• The perennial Vamsadhara River serves as the forest's lifeline, nourishing its diverse ecosystem.
• The forest is a treasure trove of plant life, encompassing 182 species of trees, 76 species of shrubs, 177 species of herbs, 69 species of climbers, and 14 species of orchids.
• The forest provides sanctuary to several threatened species, including the Indian trumpet tree, Indian snakeroot, Cumbi gum tree, and various wild relatives of ginger and turmeric.
• Tribal communities like the Dongria Kondh tribe and Parajas have a long history of living in harmony with the forest, practising sustainable harvesting and conservation methods.

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