Aaranyak celebrates 33rd Foundation Day across Assam

HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Sept 9: Aaranyak, one of the region’s foremost organisations on environmental conservation, celebrated its 33rd Foundation Day in Guwahati and various base camps across Assam on Friday.
Aaranyak began its conservation journey in 1989, when a group of youths with the enthusiasm conserve nature began a nature club called ‘Aaranyak’ that gradually but significantly evolved into a leading conservation organisation of north-east India under the leadership of Dr Bibhab Kumar Talukdar and other like-minded conservation scientists and efficient support staff. Aaranyak attained its present stature with both national and international recognition.
To mark the occasion, Aaranyak at its administrative office organised a half day event which consisted of flag hoisting, deliberations by founder members and senior officials and cultural events. The event was graced by Jagdeep Pal Singh, DIG, SSB, Sector HQ of Rangia as the guest of honour. As he spoke, Singh commended Aaranyak’s effort to promote conservation and sustainable development and how Aaranyak’s association with the SSB has been fruitful. He further stated about the role of SSB Rangia for forest conservation and exchange of ideas with Aaranyak.
As a designated Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (SIRO) by the ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, the organisation has been involved in applied research and conservation to safeguard rich biodiversity and human wellbeing in the region. Aaranyak’s area of work spans across north-east India in high conservation-value landscapes such as Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Orang National Park, Manas Tiger Reserve, and many others.
On the occasion, the secretary general and CEO of Aaranyak, Dr Bibhab Kumar Talukdar who is also a founder member, narrated his remarkable journey with the organisation and encouraged the members, staff members, delegates, and guests to work more effectively on environmental conservation and human wellbeing.
At the Manas Conservation and Research Center (MCOC) of Aaranyak, which is located near Manas National Park, a team celebrated the day with forest officials and local NGOs. Whereas, other teams at Dibrugarh, Kohora, Karbi Anglong and Bongaigaon celebrated the day with flag hoisting and interactions. At Dibrugarh, a team of the organisation distributed saplings among locals, as well.
For the unversed, Aaranyak strives to conserve nature and its resources through applied research, conservation education, policy advocacy and supporting livelihood.