PM Modi Praises Odisha Women for Forest Conservation and Eco-Tourism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Mann Ki Baat programme, praised women from Odisha’s Debrigarh region for their pioneering efforts in forest conservation while creating sustainable livelihoods.Modi highlighted the inspiring journey of Maithili Bhue from Dhodrokusum village, who once depended on forest produce like firewood, Mahua flowers, Kendu leaves, and bamboo shoots for survival. Her association with Debrigarh Eco-Tourism transformed her relationship with the forest—turning conservation into a livelihood and motivating other women to follow suit.Today, more than 60 women are actively engaged in protecting wildlife, developing grasslands, and promoting eco-tourism in Debrigarh. Modi said their work demonstrates how nature conservation and economic prosperity can go hand in hand, setting an example of community-driven sustainability.