Chhattisgarh set to get Its first state Butterfly

Raipur | Correspondent: Chhattisgarh is set to add a new chapter to its treasure trove of biodiversity. The state is poised to designate its first official state butterfly, with the 'Orange Oakleaf' (Kallima inachus) having been selected for the honor. The proposal was finalized during the 15th meeting of the State Wildlife Board and has been forwarded to the state government for formal notification.

The butterfly was chosen based on public preference. A total of 5,813 people participated in an online voting process held from July 31 to August 31, 2026, with the Orange Oakleaf securing 3,000 of those votes.

In the same selection process, the 'Common Banded Peacock' placed second with 1,606 votes, while the 'Spot Swordtail' came in third with 1,207 votes. An expert committee had shortlisted these three species based on criteria such as ecological significance, ease of identification, and their presence within the state.

The Orange Oakleaf is renowned globally for its remarkable camouflage. When its wings are closed, it bears a striking resemblance to a dry or withered leaf, effectively concealing it from predators. Conversely, when its wings are spread, they reveal vibrant hues of deep orange, dark blue, and jet-black. A statewide survey conducted in 2025 recorded 201 species of butterflies in Chhattisgarh.

Upon receiving formal approval, Chhattisgarh will become the ninth state in the country to designate an official state butterfly. Other states that have already declared a state butterfly include Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Goa, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. Notably, the Orange Oakleaf is also the state butterfly of Madhya Pradesh.