The rare orangutans currently sheltered at Bhubaneswar’s Nandankanan Zoological Park are set to undergo comprehensive DNA testing to conclusively determine their country of origin and lineage.
Odisha Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia announced that the state has coordinated with the Geological Survey of India to facilitate the sampling process. Once completed, the DNA findings will be officially shared with the Government of India to help authorities crack down on suspected trafficking routes.
The primates were brought to Nandankanan following their high-profile rescue from the Baleshwar district.
Initial blood tests conducted in mid-September revealed that the animals were suffering from anaemia, prompting immediate medical intervention including specialised injections and round-the-clock supervision by a dedicated medical team from Mysuru.
Providing an update on their condition, Minister Khuntia noted that the orangutans are responding remarkably well to treatment, aided by Odisha’s favourable climate and meticulous dietary care.
Overseen by a technical committee formed by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), the healthy turnaround has brought immense relief to wildlife officials as investigations into their provenance continue.
