Odisha village to get crocodile warning system under ‘Smart Village’ plan

Kendrapara has witnessed one of Odisha’s worst human-crocodile conflicts, with more than 20 deaths reported in the last four years. | Photo credit: The Hindu

As the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) accelerates the rollout of technology in Kusunpur, a remote village in Kendrapara district of Urina under the ‘Smart Village’ initiative, residents may soon receive an alert whenever crocodiles dangerously wander into their homes.

CSIR labs are planning to introduce an artificial intelligence (AI) wildlife detection and warning system aimed at mitigating human-animal conflict. The proposed AI system is likely to be installed at two key entry points into the village.

Kendrapara has witnessed one of the worst human-crocodile conflicts in the state, with more than 20 deaths reported in the last four years.

The village is set to witness a comprehensive modernization of the infrastructure, including a reconstructed water lock, an underground sewage system, a reconstructed social building, community toilets and a reconstructed cremation center. The roads will be developed using innovative methods, including cold mix technology, waste plastic pavement technology and cement grouted asphalt.

Apart from basic infrastructure, Kusunpur is expected to become a hub for green living. Over time, this initiative could create a number of green jobs while encouraging local entrepreneurs to explore sustainable business opportunities, thereby increasing revenue.

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In line with CSIR’s ‘lab to ground’ policy, a suite of technologies has been designed for village deployment. These include the dry processing of flowers, the production of value-added crisp fruits through freeze-drying, and the development of nutritious food products to combat malnutrition. Other initiatives include biodegradable tableware, small processing units, herbal floor cleaning liquids, mosquito creams and scented candles made from natural beeswax. Plans also include installation of brick and block machinery, village-scale rice and moong dal (green gram) milling units and a scientifically designed parboiled rice processing unit.

“Over the next three years, scientists from 17 CSIR laboratories will visit Kusunpur to ensure smooth deployment of these technologies for the overall development of the village,” said CSIR-Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) director Pradeep Kumar Ramancharla, who visited the village on Sunday (June 14, 2026).

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“The fundamental reason for creating smart villages is their integration into India’s growth story. Although India is now the fourth largest economy in the world, it still lags far behind the two largest economies – the United States and China. Bridging this gap will require contributions from all sectors. Currently, urban centers are the main drivers of job creation and economic growth,” said Mr. Racharla, but villages also have a vital role to play.

Ramanuj Narayan, Director, CSIR-Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology (IMMT), Bhubaneswar, said his lab will use sustainable water filters and smokeless chullahs (stoves) for Kusunpur.

Natural resource mapping, needs assessment and consultation with villagers have been completed, said Kishor S. Kulkarni, CBRI Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer for Implementation of the ‘Smart Village’ initiative for Kusunpur.

Published – 14 Jun 2026 21:54 IST