Unveiling Chhattisgarh’s Ecological Richness: A Rare Forest Patch in Bacheli

In a remarkable finding, the Chhattisgarh Forest Department recently identified a rare and ecologically significant forest patch in the Bacheli Forest Range of Dantewada forest division, extending into the Gangalur Forest Range of Bijapur. This unique forest, home to several ancient plant species, showcases the state’s exceptional biodiversity and deepens the understanding of its ecological wealth.

Situated at an altitude of more than 1,242 meters sea level (MSL), this forest is classified as a subtropical broad-leaved hill forest (Forest Type 8). Notably, this may perhaps be the highest-altitude forest hill in Chhattisgarh.

While the state is primarily known for its Moist and Dry Deciduous forests (Forest Types 3 and 5), this recent finding introduces a new ecological dimension. The area is regarded as a ‘Living Museum,’ preserving plant species that date back to prehistoric times, possibly even to the DINOSAUR era. Some plant species identified here are believed to be recorded in Chhattisgarh for the first time.

This discovery underscores the intricate layers of biodiversity that have persisted for millions of years, surviving significant environmental changes. It enriches Chhattisgarh’s ecological narrative and serves as a testament to the resilience of nature, preserving life through millennia.

The findings emerged from a three-day survey led by Additional PCCF (Development & Planning) Shri Arun Kumar Pandey, IFS, alongside a team of ecologists and forest officials. The team included IFS probationers Shri S. Naveen Kumar and Shri Venkatesha M.G., renowned scientists such as Dr. Rajendra Prasad Mishra, Deputy Director from the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), and Shri M.L. Nayak, former Head of the Department (School of Life Sciences) at Pt. Ravi Shankar Shukla University, Raipur. Ms. Devyani Sharma and Shri Anurag Gupta from the Forest Department were also part of the team.

During the survey, the team documented an astonishing variety of rare and ancient plant species, including Alsophila spinulosa (Tree Fern), Gnetum scandans, Ziziphus rugosus, Entada rheedei, various Rubus species, Canthium dichocuum, Ochna obtusata, Vitex lucoxylon, Dillenia pentagyna, Macherenja sinensis, and Ficus cordifolia. The Macherenja sinensis species is possibly found exclusively in this forested hill region of Chhattisgarh. These discoveries underscore the rich, untapped ecological potential of Chhattisgarh’s forests.

PCCF & HoFF Shri V. Sreenivasa Rao, IFS, praised the discovery, noting, “The Hon’ble Chief Minister and Hon’ble Forest Minister, both deeply connected to tribal forest areas, have consistently championed the exploration and protection of Chhattisgarh’s rich biodiversity. This remarkable finding in Bacheli reflects their commitment and the tireless efforts of the Forest Department.”
Shri Arun Kumar Pandey, IFS, who led the survey, described the finding as a milestone in the state’s biodiversity research. He stated, “This forest patch opens a new chapter in our understanding of Chhattisgarh’s ecological wealth. Our department is committed to promoting and protecting such unique regions, and we are confident that this discovery will attract global scientific attention to the conservation value these areas hold.”

Dr. Rajendra Mishra, an expert in biodiversity, emphasized the distinctiveness of this forest region, stating, “The vegetation here bears a striking resemblance to the flora found in the Western Ghats. Like the Kanger Ghati forests, this area is rich in diverse species. Furthermore, the lack of anthropogenic pressure has allowed these species to thrive undisturbed.”
This finding presents significant opportunities for further research and eco-tourism development.

The Forest Department plans to conduct more in-depth surveys to explore the region’s hidden biodiversity. By sharing these findings with the broader scientific community, the department aims to bolster conservation efforts and raise awareness of Chhattisgarh’s unique ecological heritage.

The identification of this rare forest patch represents a milestone in Chhattisgarh’s biodiversity conservation efforts, reaffirming the state’s status as a biodiversity hotspot.

With a focus on protecting ecologically significant plant species, the Forest Department remains committed to safeguarding these natural treasures for future generations. The department also envisions integrating this discovery into its plans for sustainable eco-tourism, positioning Chhattisgarh as a prime destination for nature lovers and researchers alike.