- The general public will be able to vote till August 31; Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap appealed to the people of the state to participate.
Chhattisgarh is moving forward to choose its first state butterfly. The Forest and Climate Change Department has sought suggestions from residents through an online poll. Citizens can vote for their preferred butterfly through a Google Form until August 31, 2026.
This process, initiated by Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, aims to promote the conservation of the state’s rich biodiversity and butterflies. He appealed to the people of the state to participate in this campaign in large numbers. He stated that conserving biodiversity and wildlife is not only the responsibility of the government, but also of every citizen. Selecting the state butterfly through public participation will increase public awareness of nature and wildlife conservation.
- Three butterfly species in the running
The expert committee formed to select the state butterfly has selected three butterfly species based on scientific and ecological criteria. These
include the Common Banded Peacock, Orange Oakleaf, and Spot Swordtail.
These butterfly species were selected based on various criteria, including their availability in the state, ecological importance, conservation value, distinctiveness, ease of identification, and public attractiveness.
- The final selection will be based on public opinion and the recommendations of experts.
The Forest Department has initiated an online voting process to solicit citizens’ opinions. Every citizen of the state can vote for the butterfly of their choice. Based on the public opinion and the recommendations of the expert committee, a final proposal for the selection of the state butterfly will be prepared. Further proceedings will then be initiated as per the regulations.
- Appeal to students and nature lovers to participate
The Forest and Climate Change Department has appealed to all citizens, students, nature lovers, researchers, teachers, and environmental organizations to actively participate in this campaign. The department has urged people to encourage as many citizens as possible to vote, so that this important symbol of Chhattisgarh’s biodiversity can be selected with widespread public participation.
