HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Sept 12: Nature enthusiasts from ten different states across India gathered at Assam State Zoo for the enlightening event titled ‘Nature’s Wonderland – A Journey of Curiosity’. Dr Purnima Devi Barman, a UN Champion of Earth Awardee from Aaranyak, shared inspirational words about selfless service and the connection between peace and dreams. Organised by Aaranyak, a premier biodiversity conservation organisation in the region, the event emphasised the importance of urban biodiversity within the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden.
Jayanta Kumar Pathak, senior manager at Aaranyak, explained the event’s purpose and highlighted the need for initiatives that deepen our understanding of urban biodiversity. Wildlife biologist Dr Jayaditya Purkayastha discussed the role of zoological parks in ex-situ conservation, emphasising their significance in wildlife research, population revival of endangered species through captive breeding, and species conservation.
Environmentalists Tanvi Hussain of Aaranyak introduced the concept of ‘One Health and Human Well-being’, and participants enjoyed an eco-therapy session comprising yoga asanas and a connection with nature to relax and rejuvenate.
Rajani Kanta Deka, chief animal keeper of Assam State Zoo, shared insights on animal rescue, rehabilitation, captive breeding, and animal behaviour. He emphasised the impact of anthropogenic activities, such as honking horns and bursting firecrackers, on animals’ stress levels and behaviour.
Dipak Bhattacharjee of Aaranyak and Pranab Bori of Assam State Zoo discussed the enthusiasm for nature conservation and the importance of finding joy and happiness in life’s ups and downs.
The event included a nature walk and talk led by Aaranyak’s team and Wonderland mentors. Thirty nature enthusiasts from ten different Indian states actively participated in the Nature’s Wonderland event, supported by the Wipro Foundation and LASA (Lea Associates South Asia Private Limited). The event, held on September 3, was coordinated by Pranab Goswami and Wasima Begum of Aaranyak, with active participation from Prahelika Saikia, Bishakha Saikia, Hiramoni Rabha, Birsong Phangcho of the department of Eco-Restoration, Dimoria College, and Akash Kakati, Nayan Sarma, and Anil Kumar Das of Aaranyak who volunteered their support.
