The Odisha state government on Friday effected a major reshuffle in the forest department, transferring 17 Indian Forest Service officers and assigning additional charges to three others. The key changes include the replacement of the deputy director of Similipal Tiger Reserve (south division) and the regional chief conservator of forests (RCCF) of Sambalpur circle.
Key Appointments in Similipal and Other Divisions
Sumit Kumar Kar, who was serving as the divisional forest officer (DFO) of Dhenkanal, has been appointed as the new deputy director of Similipal Tiger Reserve (south division). He replaces Samrat Gowda, who has been transferred to the post of RCCF (Sambalpur circle). Lalit Kumar Patra has taken over as the DFO of Dhenkanal, succeeding Kar.
Several other forest divisions have also received new DFOs, including Athgarh, Koraput, Similipal (north), Balasore, Rourkela, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi (north), and Jeypore. These changes are part of the routine administrative reshuffle aimed at optimizing the functioning of the forest department.
Changes in Senior Positions
T Ashok Kumar, who was the RCCF of Sambalpur circle, has been transferred as the chief conservator of forests for the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). Meanwhile, G Rajesh, who held the CAMPA chief conservator position, has been moved as the nodal officer in the office of the principal chief conservator of forests.
In another significant appointment, M Pradeep Devidas has been posted as the new deputy director of Nandankanan Zoo, a popular wildlife attraction in Bhubaneswar.
Additional Charges and Promotions
Sanjay Kumar Swain, RCCF of Angul circle, has been given the additional charge of director of the Odisha Forest Rangers College. He replaces Sangram Keshari Behera, who has been appointed as the new director (commercial) of the Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC).
Jagnyadatta Pati, upon his promotion to the rank of conservator of forests, has been allowed to continue in charge of RCCF, Koraput circle. P Arthanari, who serves as the general manager of OFDC, has been assigned the additional charge of RCCF, Bhubaneswar circle.
Swayam Mallick has been transferred as the special secretary of the forest and environment department, with the additional charge of conservator of forests and state silviculturist. These transfers and additional charges are effective immediately.
