The Odisha government is set to establish a new Regional Plant Resource Centre (RPRC) at Sanaghagara in Keonjhar district, a dream initiative of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, with completion expected by 2027.

This will be the second RPRC in the state after Bhubaneswar, spread over 134 acres, just five km from Keonjhar town. The project will emphasize biodiversity conservation, eco-tourism, and plant science research. It will feature thematic gardens including orchids, bamboo, wild fruits, medicinal plants, and a flower market. Sustainable construction using local stone and wood is planned. CM Majhi directed that the centre remain open to tourists year-round and emphasised preserving the Machhakandana river’s natural flow while addressing human-elephant conflict.

Additional features include a children’s playground, community centre, and various eco-educational facilities. Senior officials from the Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department, including Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja and Keonjhar collector Vishal Singh, attended the planning meeting.