GUWAHATI: In a concerted effort to instill a deeper appreciation for nature conservation among the youth of Assam, the annual Nature Camp was held at the Orang National Park and Tiger Reserve (ONP & TR) recently.
The three-day camp, organised by Aaranyak, in collaboration with the authorities of the Orang Tiger Reserve and Wild Wings, received support from the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF).
Aimed at nurturing a sense of responsibility towards biodiversity preservation, the camp attracted 32 high school students and 6 teachers from six schools situated in the vicinity of the Orang Tiger Reserve.
During the residential camp, participants were immersed in a multitude of activities designed to deepen their understanding of the importance of nature conservation.
Director of Orang Tiger Reserve, Pradipta Baruah, engaged with the students, highlighting the invaluable ecological wealth of the area and how their newfound knowledge could positively impact their communities and future generations.
Dr Bibhab Talukdar, conservation scientist and CEO/Secretary-General of Aaranyak, graced the camp with his presence, offering insights and motivation to the young conservation enthusiasts.
Dr Talukdar encouraged the students to take proactive steps in safeguarding biodiversity and outlined their potential contributions towards conservation efforts.
The inaugural ceremony, held on March 26, was presided over by Range Officer Dibyajyoti Deuri, with Bijay Sankar Bora, Publicity Secretary of Aaranyak, in attendance.
Throughout the camp, students were treated to informative lectures delivered by esteemed resource persons including Arup Kumar Das, Dr Deba Kumar Dutta, Swapan Nath, Arif Hussain, Nejib Ahmed, Pranab Goswami, Anjan Baruah, Pranjit Deka, and Karishma Sharma.
The programme encompassed various activities such as PowerPoint presentations, environmental games, group presentations, nature trails, park safaris, and a conservation drama, ensuring an enriching and engaging experience for all participants.
As the camp concluded, each student participant received educational kits, materials, and certificates to commemorate their participation and commitment to conservation.
