Sibsagar: Premier biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak, in collaboration with the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), has organised a vulture conservation awareness and sensitisation programme in Assam’s Sibsagar Commerce College, highlighting the crucial ecological and public health role played by vultures.
The programme aimed to educate students and faculty about the importance of conserving vultures — often described as nature’s sanitation workers — and to underline the urgent need to protect these threatened species, an Aaranyak communiqué said.
Aaranyak conservation official Wasima Begum spoke on the harmful bacteria present in animal carcasses and explained how vultures help prevent the spread of diseases by efficiently disposing of dead animals. She highlighted the vital ecosystem services provided by vultures and their role in maintaining environmental and public health.
Environmental enthusiast and Aaranyak member Hiren Dutta delivered a presentation on different vulture species, their physical features and the species found in the Sibsagar district. He also spoke about the threats faced by vulture populations and stressed the importance of community participation in conservation efforts.
Representing BNHS, Stitha Pragyan Mallick discussed cases of accidental poisoning and its severe impact on vulture populations. He also highlighted the conservation initiatives being undertaken by BNHS in Sibsagar district to protect vultures and their habitats.
Dr Saumar Jyoti Mahanta, Principal of Sibsagar Commerce College, interacted with students and emphasised the need for collective efforts towards vulture conservation and environmental protection.
Dr Kauranga Borgohain, IQAC Coordinator of the college, addressed the gathering and underscored the importance of environmental awareness and conservation responsibility among youth.
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The programme concluded with a pledge led by Hiren Dutta, during which students committed themselves to protecting vultures and supporting broader biodiversity conservation initiatives.
The session was anchored by Trezalin Gayan Neog, Assistant Professor of Sibsagar Commerce College, and witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and faculty, reflecting growing interest in wildlife conservation and ecological stewardship.
