Collaborative efforts needed to protect wildlife

As part of the 69th National Wildlife Week, a two-day event was organised by the Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni. Director of Extension Education Dr. Inder Dev was the Chief Guest during the concluding session held on Friday evening.

Dr. DR Bhardwaj, Professor and Head Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry welcomed the guests and informed about the various activities conducted by the department to commemorate Wildlife Week. He informed that National Wildlife Week is annually observed across India in the month of October from 2 to 8 October to spread awareness of the importance of wildlife and its conservation in India. The annual observance coincides with the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who championed the principles of Ahimsa and compassion toward all living beings. The theme of Wildlife Week 2023 is ‘Partnerships for wildlife conservation’.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Inder Dev lauded the work undertaken under several projects to conserve and protect threatened wildlife species in India. He said the Indian culture is full of examples which inspires us to work towards environment and wildlife conservation. He added that wildlife was an integral part of the whole ecosystem and efforts of everyone are required to succeed in the conservation. He cited various examples from our rich culture which shows the importance of animals and how it teaches us to live in harmony with nature.

DFO Solan Kunal Angrish, a 2014 batch IFS Officer was the Guest speaker during the event. He shared examples of several activists whose efforts led to global steps toward the conservation of wildlife and the environment. He said that the conservation of wildlife was a continuous process and must not be limited to only a week. Angrish asked the students to become active contributors to the conservation efforts. 

The Chief Guest also gave away prizes to the winners of the various competitions held during the Wildlife Week celebrations. In slogan writing, Akshita bagged the first prize while Vishal and Ansh stood second and third respectively. In poster making, Navya bagged the first prize. Priya and Aditi were second and third respectively. In painting, Rashik stood first, while Iram and Vipin bagged the second and third positions respectively.  Navya secured the first position in declamation, while Shaifali and Siya bagged the second and third positions respectively.