Guwahati: With an aim to promote primate conservation and raise awareness about their habitat, Aaranyak, a conservation organisation, collaborated with the Jorhat Forest Division of the Assam Forest Department to host an event titled ‘Primate Watch’.
The initiative took place on March 16 at the Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Jorhat district, as part of International Macaque Day celebrations.
The event brought together 20 participants, including students, nature enthusiasts, and professionals from across Assam, to engage in outdoor activities focused on primate observation and education.
The day began with a welcome address by Nandita Medhi, senior consultant at Aaranyak’s Primate Research and Conservation Division, followed by an insightful introduction to Assam’s primates, delivered by renowned primatologist Dr. Dilip Chetry, who heads the division.
Special attention was given to macaques, highlighting their ecological significance.
Field observations were guided by researcher Akshay Upadhyaya, during which participants had the opportunity to spot and study three primate species: Hoolock Gibbons, Pig-tailed Macaques, and Rhesus Macaques.
An interactive session followed the observations, allowing attendees to share their experiences and reflect on the importance of such initiatives.
Participants expressed their enthusiasm for the program and called for more similar events to engage with nature and wildlife conservation.
Nandha Kumar, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer of the Jorhat Forest Division, joined the session to encourage participants to stay involved in conservation activities.
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Dr. Dilip Chetry extended his gratitude to Aaranyak’s Secretary General and CEO, Dr. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, for supporting the initiative and thanked the Jorhat Forest Division for their assistance in making the event a success.
As a token of appreciation, participants were awarded certificates to mark the successful conclusion of the Primate Watch programme.
This initiative underscored the importance of engaging the public in biodiversity conservation efforts and fostering a deeper connection with Assam’s unique wildlife.
