**Odisha Forest Department Faces Scrutiny Over SUV Purchases**
**Meta Description:** Controversy arises in Odisha as the Forest Department’s SUV purchases and modifications come under investigation, raising questions about spending and necessity.
**URL Slug:** odisha-forest-department-suv-controversy
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The Odisha Forest Department is currently embroiled in controversy following its procurement of 51 Mahindra Thar SUVs for approximately Rs 7 crore during the 2024–25 financial year. The situation escalated when it was revealed that an additional Rs 5 crore was spent on modifying these vehicles, bringing the total expenditure to nearly Rs 12 crore. Official records indicate that each Thar was acquired for around Rs 14 lakh, with modifications including specialized equipment and fittings.
In response to the mounting criticism, Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia has ordered a special audit to investigate both the vehicle procurement process and the associated modification costs. He emphasized that while some modifications may be necessary for departmental operations, any excessive or unjustified expenditures would not be tolerated. The Minister clarified that the inquiry aims to determine the rationale behind these modifications and their actual necessity for operational purposes. Reports suggest that the vehicles were equipped with additional lights, cameras, sirens, special tires, and other gear to meet field requirements.
Minister Khuntia stated, “If any fittings are found to be unnecessary, excessive, or unauthorized, strict action will be taken.” He also warned that any illegal or suspicious activities uncovered during the audit would lead to stringent measures. Officials have indicated that the SUVs were intended for critical forest operations, including managing forest fires, deploying staff in remote areas, protecting wildlife, and combating illegal activities such as poaching and timber smuggling. The Forest Department has defended the modifications, citing the challenging terrain as a justification.
Despite these explanations, concerns remain regarding the adequacy of prior approvals and the necessity of such significant spending. Government sources have indicated that accountability will be established once the audit report is finalized, with further actions determined based on its findings. As the investigation progresses, the Odisha government has stated that a complete understanding of the situation will emerge only after the audit concludes. However, the controversy has already placed the Forest Department’s spending decisions under intense public and political scrutiny.
**FAQ**
**What prompted the audit of the Odisha Forest Department’s SUV purchases?**
The audit was initiated due to public criticism over the high costs associated with the purchase and modification of 51 Mahindra Thar SUVs, raising concerns about the necessity and justification of the expenditures.