India, Nov. 26 -- A community-managed homestay facility has opened at Dhodrokusum in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, marking a new milestone in Odisha's ecotourism efforts. The initiative, developed at the foothills of the sanctuary, is the first in the state to be operated completely by local forest-dependent families.

The cluster features five traditional mud-and-clay rooms created with natural materials such as clay, husk, cow dung and earthen tiles. Despite the rustic build, the units come with modern amenities including attached bathrooms, water and power backup, a children's play zone and an outdoor fireplace. Every item inside the rooms, from furnishings to everyday utilities, has been crafted by local artisans, showcasing Sambalpur...