In a significant step towards strengthening climate-resilient forests and empowering forest-dependent communities, the 38th Governing Body Meeting of the Odisha Forestry Sector Development Society (OFSDS) was held today under the chairmanship of Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, IAS, Principal Secretary, Forest, Environment & Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha.
G. Rajesh, Addl. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Project Director, OFSDP-II, presented a comprehensive overview of the Society’s ongoing initiatives.
The meeting thoroughly reviewed the progress of key programs, including the JICA-assisted OFSDP Phase-II, Ama Jangala Yojana (AJY), OFSDS-OMBADC, and other flagship interventions aimed at sustainable forest management and livelihood generation.
Major Decisions for Long-Term Impact
In a landmark decision, the Governing Body approved a three-year extension of the JICA-assisted OFSDP Phase-II from 2027 to 2030 without any additional cost escalation. This extension will allow the project to consolidate achievements, institutionalise successful models, and ensure the sustainability of outcomes. Statutory approval from the state government will be pursued shortly.
The Body also reviewed the promising Farm Forestry Carbon Credit Initiative, which has already brought more than 2,700 beneficiaries across 12 forest divisions under a formal carbon credit framework, covering over 1,800 acres. This initiative is set to deliver dual benefits—environmental conservation through enhanced carbon sequestration and steady income generation for farmers by connecting them to emerging carbon markets.
Progress on third-party evaluations of Ama Jangala Yojana and the OFSDP-II project by IIFM, Bhopal, was also discussed, reflecting a strong emphasis on transparency and evidence-based implementation.
New Institutional Push for Livelihoods
Recognizing the need to sustain livelihood support beyond project timelines, the Governing Body formally approved the establishment of a Livelihood Resource Centre (LRC). This dedicated institution will act as a long-term hub for strengthening producer groups, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and forest-based enterprises, providing business development support and market linkages to communities living on the forest fringes.
The meeting reaffirmed the Government of Odisha’s strong commitment to climate-resilient forestry, community-led natural resource management, and collaborative efforts for sustainable development.
The gathering was attended by senior officials, including Dr K. Murugesan, IFS, PCCF & HoFF; Manoj Nair, IFS (representing PCCF Wildlife); Swayam Mallick, IFS, Special Secretary, FE&CC; Rinku Kumari, IFS, Joint Project Director (A&F), OFSDS; along with representatives from Odisha Livelihoods Mission and partner NGOs.
