Guwahati: The Wildlife Genetics Laboratory (WGL) of Aaranyak on Monday unveiled its official website and released a detailed guidebook aimed at streamlining wildlife DNA forensic investigations, in a move to bolster science-based biodiversity conservation in the region.
The launch programme was held at Aaranyak’s administrative office in Beltola, Guwahati, in the presence of Dr Probodh Borah, Director of Research (Veterinary Sciences) at Assam Agricultural University, who attended as the chief guest, and noted journalist and documentary filmmaker Mrinal Talukdar as the guest of honour.
The newly launched website — www.wildlifegeneticslab.in — will function as a dedicated platform to share information about the laboratory’s research activities, conservation programmes and forensic services offered to government agencies and other stakeholders.
Alongside, a comprehensive guidebook outlining service details and sample collection protocols for wildlife DNA forensic analysis was also released.
Speaking at the event, Udayan Borthakur, Director and Head of Aaranyak’s Wildlife Genetics Division and founder of the WGL, traced the laboratory’s journey since its establishment in 2008.
He noted that the facility has now been officially notified as a wildlife genetics and forensic laboratory under Section 329(4) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
In his address, Dr Borah highlighted the expanding role of molecular technologies in understanding biodiversity and ecological systems.
He described the laboratory’s contributions in the region as significant and called for greater support from both government and private sectors to further strengthen and modernise its capabilities.
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Mrinal Talukdar reflected on Aaranyak’s growth over the past 37 years, stating that the organisation has evolved from a modest conservation initiative into a leading research institution equipped with advanced genetic facilities that are influencing biodiversity conservation efforts in Northeast India.
The event began with a welcome address by Aaranyak president Jimut Prasad Sarma, who reiterated the organisation’s long-standing commitment to scientific conservation.
Other members of the executive committee present included Vice President Narayan Mahanta, Finance Secretary Kaushik Bora and Publicity Secretary Bijay Sankar Bora, who delivered the vote of thanks.
The programme concluded with an interactive session involving guests, media representatives and members of Aaranyak, underscoring the organisation’s focus on integrating science, technology and community engagement to protect the region’s biodiversity.
