Past Present and Future of Similipal

Book excerpt: Similipal, a biosphere reserve in Eastern India, exemplifies the incredible diversity of our natural environment. The biosphere reserve derives its name from Simul, a red silk cotton tree found within the geographical boundaries of the Similipal Biosphere Reserve. This spectacular biosphere reserve spans over 2,750 square kilometres of floristic coverage and is known for having one of the region's dense dry deciduous forests. Its vast and diversified geography is home to a large variety of exotic flora and fauna, making it an important biodiversity hotspot. One of the major features of this biosphere reserve is that it is located within two biogeographical regions, one is the Chotanagpur area of the Deccan Peninsular Plateau, and the other is the Mahanadi east coast area of the Oriental Realm. Numerous scientific research and survey were carried out in the Similipal area, which gave credence to the fact that this area is home to many diverse species of plants, trees, animals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, etc. Similipal, home to several rare forests and aquatic animals, is a nature reservoir and a thriving living environment for several indigenous communities of tribes that have survived for generations while preserving a balanced relationship with their surroundings. They thoroughly understand the forest's resources, which they have used sustainably to support their lifestyles. This delicate equilibrium between man and nature in Similipal is an excellent example of ecological coexistence. Several researches in several biosphere zones have identified transition, buffer, and core zones, each with distinct traits and ecological relevance. The uses of forest resources, by the tribes' traditional and sustainable practices, reflects that how these traditions help to preserve Similipal's rich biodiversity and is more than simply an investigation of its natural beauty; it also provides an insight into the cultural history and knowledge of its inhabitants. This book dives into Similipal's complicated web of life, illustrating the various ways in which indigenous communities, flora and flora coexist with mutualistic relationship for balance and benefit of the environment and the mankind. The book contains 12 chapters revealing the floral and faunal diversity within Similipal, their bioprospects and the traditional uses for tribal community. We hope that this book will create a greater appreciation for this unique biosphere reserve and the critical need of protecting such natural treasures for future generations.