Rare Giant Indian Squirrel Spotted in Devpur Forest of Barnawapara

Raipur, May 27, 2026 / The Barnawapara region of Chhattisgarh has once again enhanced the state's pride with its rich biodiversity. A rare Giant Indian Squirrel (Giant Malabar Squirrel) was sighted during the Devpur Summer Camp 2026 organized in the Devpur forest under the Balodabazar Forest Division. The sighting of this rare wildlife has created excitement among the Forest Department, nature lovers, and scientists. Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap congratulated the Forest Department team on this achievement, stating that it is a positive outcome of the Chhattisgarh government's wildlife conservation and environmental promotion schemes. He said that the state government is continuously taking effective steps for the conservation of forests and wildlife, which are developing safe habitats for rare species. Rare Species Seen in Devpur Summer Camp The Devpur Summer Camp was organized by the Balodabazar Forest Division from May 16 to May 22, 2026. This rare squirrel was spotted on May 16, the first day of the camp, during a birding trail. It was identified by nature lover and cyber risk expert Shri Hemant Verma. Characteristics of the Giant Indian Squirrel The Giant Indian Squirrel, scientifically known as Ratufa indica, is one of the largest tree-dwelling squirrels in India. Its length, including the tail, is about three feet. Its body features a beautiful blend of deep red, brown, black, and cream colors. It spends most of its life in trees and is capable of making long leaps from one tree to another. Rare Species with Legal Protection This species is protected under Schedule-II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Hunting or trading it is a legal offense. It is an indicator of a healthy forest ecosystem. Divisional Forest Officer Shri Dhammashil Ganveer said that Barnawapara Sanctuary and the surrounding forest area are rich in biodiversity. The sighting of this rare squirrel in Devpur forest is proof that the forest ecosystem here is healthy and safe. Increased Awareness of Nature Conservation Among Children Divisional Forest Officer Shri Dhammashil Ganveer informed that the Devpur Summer Camp was organized, and it was a very special experience for the children and youth who participated. The Forest Department believes that sightings of such rare wildlife increase awareness about nature and wildlife conservation among the new generation. This event is an important step towards strengthening the state government's environmental conservation and public awareness-based schemes.