Leading biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak, in collaboration with the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), organised an awareness and sensitisation programme on vulture conservation at Sibsagar Commerce College, highlighting the crucial ecological and public health roles played by vultures.
The programme aimed to sensitise students and faculty members about the importance of conserving vultures — often described as nature’s sanitation workers — and to stress the urgent need to protect these threatened species, an Aaranyak communiqué stated.
Speaking at the event, Aaranyak conservation official Wasima Begum explained the presence of harmful bacteria in animal carcasses and highlighted the vital role vultures play in preventing the spread of diseases by efficiently disposing of dead animals. She emphasised the ecological services provided by vultures and their significance in maintaining environmental balance and public health.
Environment enthusiast and Aaranyak member Hiren Dutta delivered an informative presentation on different vulture species, their physical characteristics and the species found in the Sibsagar district. He also underlined the challenges facing vulture populations and the importance of community support in conservation efforts.
Representing BNHS, Stitha Pragyan Mallick spoke about incidents of accidental poisoning and their devastating impact on vulture populations. He further elaborated on the conservation initiatives being undertaken by BNHS in Sibsagar district to protect these threatened scavengers and their habitats.
Dr Saumar Jyoti Mahanta, Principal of Sibsagar Commerce College, interacted with the students and emphasised the need for collective efforts towards vulture conservation and environmental protection. Dr Kauranga Borgohain, IQAC Coordinator of the college, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of environmental awareness and conservation responsibility among the youth. Tridib Rajkunwar from the IQAC Cell of the college was present at the programme.
The session concluded with a pledge administered by Aaranyak member Hiren Dutta, in which students committed to protecting vultures and supporting biodiversity conservation initiatives.
The programme, anchored by Trezalin Gayan Neog, Assistant Professor of Sibsagar Commerce College, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and faculty members, reflecting a growing interest in wildlife conservation and ecological stewardship.
