NMCG 2017
ONE DAY RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL GROUP WORKSHOP ON 24th DECEMBER 2017.
A one day sensitization workshop was organized for vaishnav community of Rajbari residing at Sri Sri Anumahaprabhu Mandir, Rajbari, Manipuri Old Palace, Nabadwip, West Bengal. The workshop was a part of the capacity building and stakeholder involvement initiative in order to acquaint the religious group with the aims and objectives of the ‘Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation’ project of Namami Gange programme under the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and their significant role in implementing the project. A total of 40 representatives of the vaishnav community, including the 9 members from the organizing committee of Sri Sri Anumahaprabhu Mandir, were present in the workshop.
The workshop provided a platform to discuss about the issues pertaining to the Ganga River and the direct and indirect impacts of religious activities on the River. Performing rituals and immersion of ashes in the Ganga River are the main activities associated with the Ganga River. Off all the ghats in Nabadwip, Manipur ghat is the main ghat in which maximum tourist footfall is observed. Some of the concerns elucidated during the workshop, by Shri Ranjit Singh, Chairman, Oganizing Committee, Sri Sri Anumahaprabhu Mandir, were: reduced water flow, island formation due to siltation, bank erosion, destructive fishing, reduced sighting of fishes and Gangetic river dolphin in the Ganga River. Major threat to the Ganga River described by Shri Rajkumar Tikendrajit Singh, Secretary was industrial and domestic pollution that was affecting the quality of the water thereby affecting the aqualife of the River. The major source of the industrial pollution was the sugar mills situated along the banks of the Ganga River wherein the waste from these mills is drained directly into the River. Heavy organic load due to open defecation in the villages situated near the banks of the river and sewage pollution from the open drains has deteriorated the water quality of the river. The main reason as told by the participants was no maintenance of the public toilets and facilities by the municipality which has increased the pollution load.
With respect to livelihood sustenance it was mainly the fisherman community who were dependent on the River for sustenance. During discussions, emphasis was laid on the crucial role of religious communities and multiple stakeholder participation in this project as well as in cleaning of the Ganga River. Formation of Ganga Prahari and their role in the conservation of the aquatic biodiversity of the Ganga River was also discussed.
The workshop concluded with suggestions from all the participants on strengthening the participation of the communities in the biodiversity conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation project. Emphasis was laid on using a synergistic approach with inter departmental and cross sectoral coordination between the Municipal Corporation and Forest Department in implementing the project. Setting up of awareness camps in the local language in the local communities and tourists places (Bengali and English for tourists), ghats, management of tourist activities, cleaning of the ghats, treatment of waste before releasing in the Ganga River, awareness through wall paintings and hoardings for mass awareness generation, gaining social support by involving local communities in the project activities were few suggestions given by the participants at the workshop.
The WII team included Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Dr. Niladri Dasgupta, Ms. Monika Sharma, Ms. Aditi Dev, Ms. Sayantika Banerjee, and the West Bengal Forest Department Spearhead team.
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ONE DAY SENSITIZATION-CUM-LIVELIHOOD ASSESSMENT WORKSHOP FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES AT NABADWIP, NADIA, WEST BENGAL ON 23rd DECEMBER, 2017.
A one day sensitization-cum-livelihood assessment workshop was organized at Village Nayachur, Nabadwip, Nadia, West Bengal on 23rd December, 2017. The objective of the workshop was to sensitize the local people towards biodiveristy of the Ganga River and to assess the possible livelihood interventions for the villagers. A total of 46 local people participated in the workshop. The workshop was organized by WII-NMCG team comprising of Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Dr. Niladri Dasgupta, Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Ms. Monika Sharma, Ms. Aditi Dev, and Ms. Shyantika Banerjee. Dr. Niladri Dasgupta, provided an overview on the Wildlife Insitute of India and the NMCG-WII project, in Bangla language. Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, talked about the role of local communities in achieving the goals of Ganga rejuvenation and conservation of its biodiversity. She also presented about the linkages between local livelihood and conservation practices, and how the project team will be working in the village through Panchayat Raj Insititutions. Discussions with the participants revealed that there were no Self help groups (SHGs) in the villages and hence SHGs will be formed for women and youth. Availability of the resources and market was also discussed to develop the village specific livelihood activities. Members of Panchayats agreed to support the project activities and were eager to hold next meeting.
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TWO DAYS TRAINING WORKSHOP FOR WEST BENGAL FOREST OFFICIALS ON “BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND MONITORING TECHNIQUES OF AQUATIC SPECIES OF GANGA RIVER” (21st AND 22nd, DECEMBER 2017).
The Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun under the project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation” conducted two days training workshop for frontline forest officials of West Bengal Forest Department on “Biodiversity Conservation and monitoring techniques of aquatic species of Ganga River”. The training workshop was organized in collaboration with the trained spearhead team of forest officials, and was held on 21st and 22nd December, 2017 at Van Bhawan, Kolkata, West Bengal. It was attended by 39 frontline forest staff. The memebers of the Spearhead Team had already been trained at the Wildlife Institute of India, during the National training workshop for spearhead teams of the Ganga river states, from 6th to 12th November, 2017.
The objective of the workshop was to enhance the capacity of the frontline staff, with empahsis on aqautic biodiversity monitoring techniques. It also aimed to provide the participants with an opportunity to discuss and exchange information on their current programme with regards to conservation, management and utilization of forest genetic resources and also about the biodiversity of Ganga River and the challenges associated therein.
The workshop was divided into three sessions: two technical sessions on monitoring biodiversity and participatory management respectively and a session comprising of the field visit to the Santragachi Jheel, a Ramsar site, near Kolkata.
The first day of the workshop started with a welcome address by Dr. Ruchi Badola, Scientist G, Wildlife Institute of India. Pre-training impact assessment forms were distributed amongst the participants before the start of the technical session. Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Traning Coordinator, commenced the workshop by welcoming the participants. Dr. Niladri Dasgupta, gave a detailed overview of the NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”. He gave an overview of the project related to its inception, the major objectives, the work that has already started in the other Ganga river states and what initiatives needs to be taken for the biodiversity rejuvenation of the Ganga river, in the state of West Bengal. This was followed by a talk from Shri Kalyan Das, (Chief Conservator of Forests, South-East Circle, West Bengal) highlighting the issues affecting the biodiversity of the Ganga river with special reference to West Bengal. He gave a detailed overview of the state of the Ganga river in West Bengal, problems and issues the river is facing in the present day and what measures are being taken for its rejuvenation process.
Subsequently a short discourse on the monitoring of turtles, crocodiles, Gangetic river dolphin and water birds associated with the river, was given by Dr. Niladri Dasgupta. He highlighted the importance of river fauna, talked about the different faunal species found in the river Ganga, their condition in the present scenario, position in the IUCN red list category and how their conservation will in turn help in the rejuvenation of the Ganga river. Thereafter Dr. Sangeeta Angom, gave a lecture on biological sample collection and genetic monitoring. She taught the participants the simple ways of collecting biological samples and preserving them properly using easily available chemicals and send them to WII or any other forensic laboratory for further tests and analysis. The technical session on monitoring biodiversity aimed at improving the theoretical understating of the biology, ecology, monitoring methods for various taxa viz. Waterbirds, Dolphins, Crocodiles, Turtles and Otters. The first part of technical session concluded with lunch.
The second part of the session consisted of a group activity and a talk by Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Project Scientist, related to participatory management. For the group activity the participants were divided into 3 groups and a box was filled with miscellaneous objects like pen, pencil, battery, flower, leaf, phone, phone cover etc. Each group had to select one group leader. The first group was called in and the box filled with items was only shaken and the members were asked to list out the items inside it based on the sound from the box. The second group was asked to feel the contents of the box and make a list of it. While the third group was shown the items inside the box and were asked to make a list. The list of items submitted by each group leader, from all the three groups were then collected and compared. The result showed that the third group fared the best as they could name most of the items inside it, and was followed by the second and first group. The inference from this group activity was then highlighted by Dr Pariva Dobriyal, who emphasised on the importance of participatory management. She explained as in why the third group fared the best as they were shown all the items, which is analogous to a situation where the frontline staff are most aware of a crisis situation in field and how the relevance of the information dies down during its passing in the hierarchical order. She accentuated that there needs to be coordination between frontline forest staff, higher officials and the community for better biodiversity conservation and Ganga rejuvenation process.
The second day of the session consisted of a field visit to Santragachi Jheel. Different aquatic and riparian vegetation were shown to the participants by Ms. Monika Sharma. She described the importance of each species and how some of them act as pollution indicators while a few of them help in natural purification of water. Dr. Niladri Dasgupta talked about different water variables and how they should be monitored and measured. This was followed by distribution of the Post – training impact assessment forms to the participants. Afterward a valedictory function was organised at the Van Bhavan, Kolkata. Dr. R.P. Saini, IFS, Director and Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Sundarban Biosphere Reserve, was the chief guest. He stated that this was a very enlightening workshop for the frontline staff members and more such training workshops should be planned in the near future, since for rejuvenation of Ganga River a large number of human resources are required. The function concluded with certificate distribution to the participants.
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ONE DAY SENSITIZATION WORKSHOP FOR THE STUDENTS AT RAJGHAT INTER-COLLEGE, NARORA, BULANDSHAHR ON 20th December, 2017
A one day sensitization workshop was conducted on 20th December at Rajghat inter-college for the students of 11th and 12th Science stream. The workshop aimed at introducing monitoring techniques for the riverine vegetation to the students. A total 29 students and 1 teacher participated in the workshop. Ms. Shashi Joshi started the workshop by giving a brief explanation about the WII-NMCG “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation” project and its objectives, different aquatic species found in the Ganga river and importance of the aqualife and issues in their conservation. After this, the students were asked to fill the pre-training questionnaire.
Ms. Monika Mehralu gave a talk on the topic “Monitoring of riverine vegetation”. She started her talk by giving a brief explanation about the objectives of the workshop. Further, she explained about the different types of plants that are found in the river and on the bank of the river, importance of plants in maintaining the ecosystem, techniques that are use for the monitoring of vegetation. She further explained in detail about the quadrate method, size of the quadrate, why quadrate sampling is use, for which type of plant the quadrate sampling is done. Other than this, the students were also informed about the different freshwater turtle species that are found in the Ganga river. Subsequently, the students were asked to fill the feedback form. The workshop was concluded by the distribution of brochures, posters and refreshments.
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TRAINING WORKSHOP FOR POSTGRADUATES STUDENTS ON “ECOLOGICAL MONITORING TECHNIQUES OF AQUATIC SPECIES OF GANGA RIVER” ON 19th, DECEMBER, 2017
One day training workshop for Postgraduates students on “Ecological monitoring techniques of aquatic species of Ganga River” was organized on 19th, December, 2017, at Alipore Zoo, West Bengal. Students from different colleges viz. Vidyasagar College, Kolkata (Salt Lake Campus); Ballygunge Science College, University of Kolkata; Serampore College Serampore Hooghly; Department of Zoology, University of Kolkata; Diamond Harbour Woman’s University; Shibpur Dinobundhoo Institution (College) Shibpur, Howrah attended the workshop. Off 25 participants, 17 were Postgraduate’s students, 4 were the officials of the Zoo Authority and 4 were university teachers. The main objective of this workshop was to sensitize the students on the status of faunal diversity and enhance their capacity on the monitoring techniques of indicator species of Ganga River. The workshop was inaugurated with welcome address by Dr. Sangeeta Angom, training coordinator. After that, the WII-NMCG Project objectives and goals were briefed by Dr. Pariva Dobriyal. Subsequently, Dr. Dobriyal also presented on importance of community participation and challenges in restoration of aqualife of Ganga River. After this, the participants were taken to Zoo enclosures to introduce them to the indicator species of Ganga River viz. freshwater turtles, crocodiles, Birds. The participants were introduced about the ecological monitoring techniques and genetic sample collection for different endangered species present in Ganga River. At the end, an open discussion session was organized where all participants discussed about their doubts and about the NMCG project. Following discussion each participants were given training impact assessment form to know about the impact of training given to them.
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FIRST NATIONAL TRAINING WORKSHOP FOR SPEARHEAD TEAMS OF THE GANGA RIVER STATES ON “BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND MONITORING OF AQUATIC SPECIES OF GANGA RIVER” FROM 6TH TO 12TH NOVEMBER, 2017.
The Wildlife Institute of India (WII), DehraDun under the project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation” conducted its first National Training workshop for spearhead teams for forest department of the Ganga River states on “Biodiversity Conservation and monitoring of aquatic species of Ganga River”, from 6th to 12th November 2017. The workshop was attended by 36 forest officials from Chief Conservator of Forests to forest guards, of the four Ganga River states, namely Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. The training workshop was attended by 6 officials from Uttar Pradesh; 13 officials from Bihar; 7 officials from Jharkhand and 10 officials from West Bengal Forest Department. The main focus of this workshop was to train the officers and frontline staff with the skills and capacities required for the biodiversity monitoring, conservation and management of the riverine species along the Ganga River. The objective of the workshop was to form spearhead teams for each of the Ganga River state and train them in the areas of aquatic biodiversity monitoring for practical and action-oriented implementation of science-based research carried out by the WII. These trained spearhead teams will train other frontline staff for successful biodiversity monitoring and restoration of the Ganga River. The training workshop was held from 6th to 9th November, 2017 at Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Subsequently, a field visit was organized from 10th to 12th November, 2017 at the National Chambal Sanctuary, Morena (MP). The workshop was divided into five sessions, viz. Two technical sessions on monitoring biodiversity, one session each on participatory management, conservation education and a session of field exposure to National Chambal Sanctuary.
On 6th November 2017, day 1 of the workshop, Dr. G.S. Rawat, Dean, WII, welcomed the participants. Thereafter, Dr. Ruchi Badola, Scientist G, gave an introduction to the project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”, while Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Training Coordinator, highlighted the role and importance of the Spearhead Teams in maintaining the ecological integrity of the Ganga River. The technical sessions on monitoring biodiversity aimed at improving the theoretical understating of the biology, ecology, monitoring methods for various taxa viz. Waterbirds, Dolphins, Crocodiles, Turtles and Otters.
On the 2nd day, the session started with walk on the Nature trail of Wildlife Institute of India campus, which was led by Drs. B.S. Adhikari, Scientist F, and Amit Kumar. During the visit, the participants were explained about the major tree species of the nature trail and their ecological importance. After the trail, the second technical session started with a talk on “Monitoring of Herpetofauna” by Dr. Abhijit Das. After this, Dr. J.A. Johnson, spoke on the “Monitoring River Ecosystem using Fish community”. Dr. V.P. Uniyal, explained about the monitoring techniques of aquatic invertebrate and their importance. Dr. Anju Baroth, Scientist C, talked about the water quality monitoring and eco-toxicology. After the technical session the Spearhead Teams along with WII Project personnel visited Forest Research Institute (FRI). Dr. Ombir Singh, Scientist ‘E’, briefed about the functions of FRI and talked about the DPR that has been prepared by FRI as Forestry Intervention for rejuvenation of Ganga River. The Spearhead teams visited the Silviculture Museum and took a tour of the FRI campus.
The technical session of the day 4 was on “Conservation education”, and was conducted by Dr. Bitapi Sinha. During the session, she talked about the role of interpretation in raising the awareness amongst the people, she also informed that during the historical time in India people used different forms of interpretation like Katha, Nukkad Natak. Dr. Sinha, spoke on the tangible, intangible resources and universal concepts of interpretation. She highlighted that the efficiency of interpretation with the help of emotions and accurate information makes a campaign successful.
After the completion of the technical session, the valedictory function was organised at the auditorium of Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun. Dr. Raghav Langer, Director and Additional Secretary, State Project Management Group, Namami Gange, Uttarakhand was the chief guest for the event. Dr. Ruchi Badola welcomed the august gathering to the event. Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Training Co-ordinator presented the course report, which was followed by the address by the Director Wildlife Institute of India, Dr. V.B. Mathur. In his address Dr. Mathur said that the actions in the field are to be spearheaded by the trained spearhead team. He emphasized on the role and importance of having a hierarchically vertical team, where the frontline staff are crucial for getting the work done in field. More such training workshops are planned in the near future, since for rejuvenation of Ganga River a large number of human resources are required. Dr. Raghav Langer, in his address to the gathering stated, that the Ganga River in the state of Uttarakhand is facing major challenge in terms of water abstraction, while in other four states pollution is the major challenge for the Ganga River. Dr. Langer also emphasized on the need for carrying out sensitization workshops for the partners of SPMG in all the Ganga river states. The valedictory function culminated with certificate distribution to the participants.
On the 5th day, the Spearhead Teams along with Training team of WII-NMCG left WII campus, Dehra Dun for field exposure to National Chambal Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh. The 6th day started with field training with a trip to Eco-centre, Morena, a Gharial and turtle rearing centre of Madhya Pradesh Forest Department (MPFD), at National Chambal Sanctuary. Dr. S.A. Hussain gave a brief description of the Chambal River and the National Chambal Sanctuary. Emphasising the significance and importance of the Sanctuary along with its biological diversity, he pointed the threats and management issues of the Sanctuary. After de-briefing, the participants visited the Museum inside the Eco-centre where participants were taught about the identifying characteristics of different aquatic fauna of the River, especially gharial, mugger and freshwater turtles. Afterwards the participants visited the gharial and turtle rearing ponds where ex-situ conservation of endangered turtles like Red-crowned roofed turtle (Batagur kachuga), Three-striped roofed turtle (Batagur dhongoka), Indian Narrow-headed soft shell turtle (Chitra indica) and gharial were being carried out. Dr. Hussain and Dr. Gopi G.V. explained the ex-situ rearing techniques and importance of such centres in conservation of endangered species.
After the interactive session at Eco-centre, the participants visited the Chambal river at Rajghat (Morena), where they were given data sheets for assessing river morphometry and survey techniques for riverine fauna. The participants were taught to assess river morphology and identification of some important aquatic species along with knowledge on their life history stages for e.g. identification of adult, sub-adult and juvenile size classes of each group. They were taught about the different monitoring techniques of water birds and their habitats with their key identification features. The Team then took a trip from Jaitpur to downstream of Rajghat, about 10 km stretch of the River and observed a number of key aquatic fauna like gharial, mugger, turtles and river dolphin. With the help of WII training team, the participants learned to identify these species and their age groups. Showing different anthropogenic activities like water extraction, agriculture and mining activities, Dr. Niladri explained the management issues of a river sanctuary and interacted with the participants about preventive and mitigation measures. The participants shared their ideas and views about their own experience in handling such aspects within their own respective field of work.
On the 7th day, the Team gathered at Eco-centre at 10 am. Dr. A.A. Ansari, DFO, Morena, welcomed the Team at the conference hall of the Centre. After a brief account about the National Chambal Sanctuary, a documentary was shown to the participants about the biodiversity of the Chambal River. He interacted with the participants and shared his experience in conservation issues and challenges faced by forest department. Dr. Hussain talked about environmental flows (e-flows) and explained how e-flows are necessary to manage river ecosystems and conserve ecosystem service values citing an example from Chambal River.
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LAUNCH CUM SENSITIZATION WORKSHOP ON “BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND GANGA REJUVENATION” AND “DEVELOPMENT OF CONSERVATION ACTION PLAN FOR RIVER DOLPHINS” FOR THE OFFICIALS OF THE BIHAR FOREST DEPARTMENT.
The one day ‘Launch cum Sensitization Workshop’ was organized as a part of the capacity building and stakeholder involvement initiative in order to apprise the Bihar Forest Department personnel about the aims, objectives and importance of the Wildlife Institute of India’s projects titled “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation” and “Development of Conservation Action Plan for River Dolphins” to develop a partnership with the Bihar Forest Department.
The ‘launch cum sensitization workshop’ took place on 5th October, 2017 at the Eco Park, Rajdhani Vatika, Bihar Forest Department in Patna, Bihar. The workshop was inaugurated by Shri Sushil Modi, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, which was followed by opening remarks by Shri P.K. Shukla, PCCF and HoFF, Forest Department, Government of Bihar. The ‘inaugural session’ commenced with the welcome address by Shri Bharat Jyoti, wherein he welcomed the participants and set the tone of the workshop by talking about the relevance of the Ganga River.
The workshop was attended by the Shri Vivek Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary, Government of Bihar, Shri P.K. Shukla, PCCF & HOFF, Bihar Forest Department, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (APCCF), Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), Conservator of Forests (CF), Divisional Forest Officers (DFO) and Forest Range Officers (FRO). A total of 50 officials from the Bihar Forest Department attended the workshop.
Dr. R.K. Sinha, Senior Professor, Nalanda Open University was one of the local resource person for the workshop. The WII team included Dr. S.A. Hussain, Dr. Ruchi Badola, Prof. Qamar Qureshi, Dr. Niladri Dasgupta, Dr. Rashid Raza, Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Ms. Amanat K. Gill, and Mr. Goura C. Das.
Dr. S.A. Hussain, welcomed all the participants on behalf of WII and expressed gratitude for their presence. Professor Qamar Qureshi, presented the objective and methodology of the CAMPA project “Development of Conservation Action Plan for River Dolphins”. Dr. Ruchi Badola, discussed the community aspect of the NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”. She highlighted the importance of involvement of multilevel stakeholders in conservation of biodiversity of Ganga River.
Presentations were followed by the group work and discussions, for which the participants were divided into three groups and with one facilitator from WII. After the allocated time, the group facilitators prepared the report.
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TRAINING WORKSHOP FOR THE STUDENTS OF RAMJAS COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY OF DELHI WILDLIFE INSTITUTE OF INDIA, DEHRADUN ON 26TH OCTOBER, 2017
A one-day training workshop for the students of Ramjas College, University of Delhi, was conducted at WII, Dehra Dun. A total of 44 B.Sc. (Hons.) Zoology, II and III year, students chaperoned by three Assistant Professors, Dr. Mayanglambam Ojit Kumar Singh, Dr. Ng. Sarat and Dr. Samar Pal Singh participated in the workshop. The attendees were formally welcomed by Dr. Gautam Talukdar, followed by a brief introduction about WII and its mandate given by Dr. Sangeeta Angom. Dr. Shivani Barthwal gave a talk on the Biodiversity of Ganga River and provided a brief introduction to the NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation” via a PowerPoint presentation. The students were escorted to the Genetics Lab, where Dr. Sandeep K. Gupta educated them about the relevance of genetics in the field of biodiversity conservation with particular emphasis on Ganga’s biodiversity. He also gave a talk on the illegal trade in wildlife products and the Wildlife (protection) Act, 1972. Led by Dr. Gautam Talukdar and Mr. Charuhas Dali, the attendees were divided into two groups and taken around the ‘Nature trail’, where they were informed about the campus biodiversity — floral and faunal composition, vegetation sampling methods and bird identification and census techniques. The objective of the workshop was to give the participants a basic understanding about the biodiversity of Ganga River and the challenges in conservation. The workshop also aimed to develop the skills of the students in assessing and monitoring the biodiversity of Ganga and identification of illegal wildlife trade articles.
The team from WII comprised of two faculty members (Dr. Gautam Talukdar, Scientist – E, Dr. Sandeep K. Gupta, Scientist – E) and 15 researchers (Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Shivani Barthwal, Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Dr. Deepika Dogra, Dr. Ajit Kumar Awasthi, Ms. Monika Sharma, Ms. Ekta Sharma, Mr. Ravindra Tripathi, Ms. Anita Devi, Ms. Aditi Dev, Ms. Amanat Kaur Gill, Ms. Michelle Irengbam, Ms. Shatakshi Sharma, Mr. Ajay Rawat, Mr. Mirza, Mr. Sartaj, Mr. Charuhas Dali).
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CONSERVATION AWARENESS WORKSHOP FOR SCHOOL CHILDREN AT WILDLIFE INSTITUTE OF INDIA, DEHRADUN ON 12TH OCTOBER 2017
A ‘Conservation awareness workshop’ was organized on 12TH October 2017 at WII for the students of St. Patrick’s Academy, Dehradun and Rabea Girls Public School, Delhi. The main objective of the workshop was to introduce and acquaint the participants about the existence and importance of faunal diversity of India, NMCG-WII Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation project.
The team from WII comprised of Dr. Gopi G.V. (Scientist ‘E’) and Dr. Sandeep Gupta (Scientist ‘E’). Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Shivani Barthwal and Dr. Deepika Dogra, Ms. Monika Sharma, Ms. Aditi Dev and Ms. Ekta Sharma from the NMCG-WII Project participated in the event. Mr. Deepan Chakkaravarthy, Mr. Mujahid, Mr. Umar, Mr. Anurag Vishwakarma, Ms. Surabhi Sati, Mr. Kumar Ankit and Mr. Balraj Naik and Mr. Krishan Murari, and the forensic department team were also present during the event.
Dr. Gopi G.V commenced the workshop by welcoming the participants of the workshop. He briefed about the role of Wildlife Institute of India in Wildlife conservation. The workshop was conducted in two sessions. In the first, Session Dr. Gopi G.V. delivered a talk on the Wildlife diversity in India, Zoogeographic regions of the World, Biodiversity hotspots, Biodiversity of Biogeographic Zones in India. The students were also briefed about NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”. Dr. Gopi emphasized on the importance of the Ganga River, its course, role of aqualife in maintaining a healthy ecosystem and threats to the Ganga River.
In the next session, Mr. Kumar Ankit conducted a quiz for the participants based on the Biodiversity of India. Later on Dr. Sandeep Gupta briefed about importance of forensic science in wildlife conservation and showed some specimens of animal’s skin including Tiger, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Python, Alligator etc.
The workshop ended with an interactive walk and discussion at Nature Trail of WII in which students were briefed about the floral and faunal diversity found in the campus area. The participants were divided into four groups, each with experienced wildlife biologists. The main purpose of the nature trail was to give a live exposure of wildlife and nature to explain the significance of biodiversity conservation. Students actively participated in both the sessions, interacted with the team and came up with the interesting questions and innovative ideas.
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SENSITIZATION WORKSHOP FOR THE STUDENTS OF NALANDA UNIVERSITY, BIHAR ON 5TH OCTOBER 2017
On the occasion of “Ganga River Dolphin Day” and “Wildlife Week”, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun conducted a sensitization workshop for the students of Nalanda University, Rajgir, Bihar at Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, Patna, Bihar. Dr. Gopi GV, Scientist – E; Dr. Gautam Talukdar, Scientist – E, Goura Chandra Das, Research Associate, Amanat Kaur Gill, Project Fellow from WII conducted this workshop. The workshop was attended by 31 students from the ‘School of Ecology and Environment’, Nalanda University, chaperoned by Assistant Professor, Mr. Bharath Sundaram, and two Foresters of Bihar Forest Department. The attendees were formally welcomed by Mr. Kamaljeet Singh, Director, Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, followed by a brief introduction to WII by Dr. Gautam Talukdar. A presentation was given by Mr. Goura Chandra Das on the NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”. He also sensitized the students about the Ganga River and its biodiversity and informed them about the relevance, scope, objective and activities undertaken in the aforementioned project. The salient features of the project were explained in detail by Dr. Gopi. G.V., with emphasis on the ecological and conservation significance of Ganga River. This was followed by an interactive question and answer session with the students wherein the students were encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the conservation of Ganga’s biodiversity, issues and potential solutions. Questions were raised about the role of different stakeholders, tackling heavy metal pollution, developmental and anthropogenic concerns, and methodology for monitoring the species of concern. Lack of awareness among the people working for the conservation of the Ganga River, such as religious leaders, was an interesting avenue of discussion that came up during the workshop.
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WILDLIFE WEEK CELEBRATION DEHRADUN, UTTARAKHAND (2nd – 8th OCTOBER 2017)
The NMCG-WII project team celebrated the Wildlife week during 2nd to 8th October, 2017, by organizing various activities. The celebration conducted throughout the week also observed the “Ganga River Dolphin Day” on the 5th of October, 2017. In Uttarakhand, the activites were organised on 5th and 6th of October, 2017 at Janki Children Academy, Banjarawala, Dehradun. The activites were organised for 1500 students during 5th to 6th October 2017. On 5th October 2017, students of classes 4th to 12th participated in poster making, hand painting, face painting, slogan writing and drawing competition, on the theme “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”. All the students took part with great enthusiasm and penned down their thoughts in these events. Consecutively on 6th October 2017, sensitisation workshop for 100 students of 11th and 12th classes was organised. During the workshop, the WII-NMCG Project objectives and goals were briefed. The NMCG-WII team, highlighted the importance of the Ganga River basin and sensitised the students on direct and indirect benefits derived from the Ganga River. They also emphasized the role of young generation in the conservation of the biodiversity by contributing at an individual level. The workshop concluded with feedback by the students and teachers followed by prize distribution to the winners of various events. The team of WII-NMCG project included Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Deepika Dogra, Ms. Monika Sharma, Ms. Anita Devi, Ms. Monika Mehralu and Ms. Shatakshi Sharma.
A. Various competitions (Classes: 4th to 12th)
• Drawing competition (Classes: 4th to 6th )
• Poster Making (Classes: 7th to 8th )
• Hand Painting (Classes: 8th to 12th )
• Face Painting (Classes: 8th to 12th )
• Slogan Writing Competition (Classes: 9th to 12th )
B. One day sensitisation workshop (Classes: 11th & 12th )
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WILDLIFE WEEK CELEBRATION NARORA, UTTAR PRADESH (2nd – 8th OCTOBER 2017)
On 3rd October 2017, during the Wildlife Week the NMCG-WII team organized drawing and quiz competition for students from class 6th-9th and 10th- 12th at Irrigation Inter-College, Narora, Bulandshahar, Uttar Pradesh. About 40 students and 6 teachers participated in the events. The school students were briefed about the significance of celebrating Wildlife Week, importance of wildlife in maintaining the ecological balance. The students were also introduced to the NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”. A presentation was delivered on the importance of the Ganga River, its course, role of aqualife in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, threats to the Ganga River and role of youth in conserving the River. After the presentation, drawing and quiz competitions were conducted for the participants. The topic for drawing competition was ‘Ganga Aqualife and Conservation Issues’. Quiz competition consisted of general questions on environment and wildlife, origin of Ganga River, its course and aqualife. Students actively participated, interacted with the team and came up with questions and innovative ideas to conserve the Ganga River. The competitions were concluded with prize distribution ceremony, vote of thanks to teachers and students and refreshments. The WII-NMCG team members consisted of Dr. Deepika Dogra, Ms. Aditi Dev, Ms. Ekta Sharma, Ms. Monika Mehralu, Ms. Sunita Rawat and Mrs. Shashi Joshi.
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CULTURAL EVENT HELD ON THE OCCASION OF “SWACHHTA HI SEWA” PAKHWARA AT WILDLIFE INSTITUTE OF INDIA, DEHRADUN ON 2nd OCTOBER 2017.
The WII-NMCG team organized a cultural event on the theme Swacchta hi Seva with special reference to Ganga River on 2nd October 2017, at the auditorium of the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun. Dr. G.S. Rawat, Dean, Wildlife Institute of India inaugurated the event with an opening remark on the importance of maintaining cleanliness (swacchta). A group song by the WII faculties’ children followed it. Students from the Mass Communication Department of the Sai Group of Institutions, Dehradun performed a skit on the theme “Swachh Ganga Abhiyan” highlighting how Ganga River is getting polluted due to ignorance and indifference of the people. The event proceeded with a dance performance by students of the Janki Children Academy, Banjarawala through which they appealed to keep the Ganga River clean. Dehradun based Sambhav theatre group performed a riveting Nukkad Natak (street play), which was a satirical take on the deplorable condition of the Ganga River due to pollution and why it persists. The team of the Nukkad Natak, made the audience pledge to maintain the Ganga River’s purity and integrity, by keeping it clean. After the performance by the Sambhav theatre group, the NMCG-WII project team and faculty wives sang the Namami Gange biodiversity geet. The event ended with a vote of thanks by Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Project Associate and training coordinator of the WII - NMCG team.
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ACTIVITIES ORGANIZED TO CELEBRATE ‘SWACHHTA HI SEWA’ PAKHWADA AT HARIDWAR ON 29th SEPTEMBER 2017.
The WII-NMCG project team celebrated the ‘Swachhta hi Sewa’ pakhwada during 17th September to 2nd October, 2017, by organizing various activities on 29th September, 2017. An awareness rally, cleanliness drive, plantation drive and Swachhta Pledge were organized. These activities were organized in association with Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar, Uttarakhand Science Education & Research Center, Dehradun, NGO - Society of Environmental Education and Mass Awareness (SEEMA) and National Service Scheme (NSS) under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, GOI. The main purpose of these activities was to spread awareness and build the capacity of the participants on the significance of biodiversity conservation of Ganga River and importance of cleanliness along the banks of the River. The team from WII consisted of Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Ms. Monika Sharma, Ms. Anita Devi, Ms. Shatakshi Sharma, Mr. Ravindra Nath Tripathi and Mr. Sartaj.
1. Swachhta Awareness Rally
The awareness rally took off from Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya and culminated at Geeta Kutir Ghat. A total distance of 1.5 km was covered. The rally participants sensitized the local communities and tourist on the proper disposal of the waste and encouraged them to maintain healthy ecosystem in the vicinity of the Ganga River.
2. Cleanliness Drive
A cleanliness drive was organized at the Ganga kutir Ghat, Haridwar with Professors and staff of Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, representatives of Uttarakhand Science Education & Research Center, Dehradun, members of SEEMA and volunteers of NSS. All the participants participated in the cleanliness drive, with great enthusiasm. The cleanliness drive started at 10.30 a.m. and continued till 11.30 a.m. The Ghat premises and outside were cleared of plastic waste and bio-waste.
3. Swachhta Pledge
The Swachhta Pledge was taken at the Saptarishi Ghat, Haridwar. The participants pledged for never dumping any kind of pollution into the Ganga River or any other water body. They pledged from abstaining dumping of painted statues, plastic, polythene, detergents, chemicals and other non-biodegradable material into water bodies and also pledged to prevent the pollution of any religious place.
4. Plantation Drive
The plantation drive was conducted by WII-NMCG Team, students and faculty members of Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya. During the plantation drive, saplings of plant species with medicinal and religious values, were planted in the premises of the Vishwavidyalaya.
5. Training Workshop
The training team organized a capacity building workshop on “Ganga River’s Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation” at Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar in association with SEEMA and NSS. A total 25 post-graduate students and 7 professors attended the sensitization and training workshop.
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CLEANLINESS DRIVE HELD ON THE OCCASION OF “SWACHHTA HI SEWA” PAKHWARA NARORA, UTTAR PRADESH (17TH SEPTEMBER-2ND OCTOBER 2017)
On the occasion of “Swachhta Hi Sewa” Pakhwara (17th September-2nd October 2017), a cleanliness drive, was organized on 2nd October 2017, at Rajghat, Gram Panchayat Rajghat. Local community (Youth, Shopkeepers), and volunteers (members of Shiv Sena, Dibai block) participated in this cleanliness drive.
The NMCG-WII project field team alongwith the Gram Pradhan, local communities, youth of the village, volunteers from Shiv Sena, shopkeepers on the Rajghat and tourists, cleaned the ghat. The objective of conducting this programme was to interact and encourage the visitors and local communities for keeping the ghats clean on a regular basis to ensure health and hygiene along the Ganga ghats and its vicinity. The efforts of the NMCG-WII team to sensitize local people and tourists were highly appreciated by the participants.
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GANGA CHAUPALS HELD ON THE OCCASION OF “SWACHHTA HI SEWA” PAKHWARA NARORA, UTTAR PRADESH (17TH SEPTEMBER-2ND OCTOBER 2017)
On the occasion of “Swachhta Hi Sewa” Pakhwara (17th September-2nd October 2017), Ganga Chaupals were organized for the religious group on 27th September 2017 at Brighu Ashram, Narora and for local community on 1st October 2017 at Panchayat Ghar Dhaknagla, of Dibai blocks. Community members, including women and youth of Beheriya and Dhak Nagla Gram Panchayats participated in these Ganga Chaupals. Dr. Sandeep Behera, Biodiversity Consultant, NMCG was also present during the Ganga Chaupals .
During these Ganga Chaupals discussions were held emphasizing the role of religious groups and local communities in keeping the Ganga River and its surroundings clean. It was suggested that the religious groups and local community should actively participate and organize periodic cleanliness drives, and should encourage use of organic fertilizers. During the Ganga Chaupals, it was suggested that the messages of cleanliness and use of organic fertilizers could be delivered using religious and cultural platform. These platforms could also be used for spreading awareness on importance of Ganga River and its aqualife to the masses. The participants of the Ganga Chaupals, appreciated the efforts of the NMCG-WII team and agreed to carry forward the message of “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”.
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AWARENESS PROGRAMME HELD ON THE OCCASION OF “SWACHHTA HI SEWA” PAKHWARA NARORA, UTTAR PRADESH (17TH SEPTEMBER-2ND OCTOBER 2017)
On the occasion of “Swachhta Hi Sewa” Pakhwara (17th September-2nd October 2017), a swachhta awareness program was held by the project team at Udaygadi Junior High School and Rajghat Inter-College of Udaygadi and Rajghat Gram Panchayats, of Dibai block. The program was organized on 27th September 2017. Students of 6th to 8th standard of Udaygadi Junior High School and 10th to 12th classes of Rajghat Inter-College participated in the events. The students and teachers of these two schools were sensitized on importance of cleanliness of the Ganga river and its surroundings for ensuring a healthy ecosystem for its aqualife. Slogan and essay writing competitions were organized for the students of these two schools. Dr. Sandeep Behera, Biodiversity Consultant, NMCG was also present during the event and he distributed the prizes to the students. Dr. Behera also interacted with the students and informed the students about the biodiversity of the Ganga River, its aqualife, threats and significance of using organic fertilizers. Students and teachers along with the NMCG-WII Ganga team took Swachhta pledge (Humara Sankalp- Swacchta hi Sewa) on this occasion.
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FIRST MEETING OF THE MONITORING COMMITTEE OF THE WII-NMCG PROJECT (BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND GANGA REJUVENATION)
The first meeting of the Monitoring Committee of the WII-NMCG Project was held at Wildlife Institute of India on 7th September 2017. The meeting was chaired by Shri U.P. Singh, Director General, National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) & Chairperson, Monitoring Committee. The committee members included Dr. V.B. Mathur, Director, Wildlife Institute of India, Dr. Savita, Director, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, Dr. Arun Kumar, Director, Dolphin Institute of Biomedical & Natural Sciences, Dehradun, Dr. Raghav Langer, Director, State Program Management Group Uttarakhand, Dr. Sandeep Behera, Biodiversity Consultant, NMCG.
The entire WII-NMCG project team comprising of the faculty and the project personnel participated in the meeting.
The meeting started with the welcome of the monitoring committee members. Shri U.P. Singh, Director General, NMCG released the six brochures published under the “Vibrant Ganga Series”, on the aquatic fauna of Ganga River. After a round of introductions, the committee members were given a brief on the project. Shri U.P. Singh, in his opening remarks stated that although Wildlife Institute of India’s biodiversity project is small in financial terms, it is a very important component of the NMCG and Namami Gange programme.
Presentations on the objectives, approaches and progress under the six components were given by the component coordinators. In addition to the presentations on the approach and work done on three specialized aspects of the project viz: Ecotoxicology, Genetics and Remote Sensing & GIS were also made.
The committee members were appreciative about the project approach and the progress achieved so far. Shri U.P. Singh concluded that project has initiated well, however, it is a very challenging task and we need to keep up the momentum. He suggested that other organizations and wings of NMCG, such as SPMGs, Ganga Vichar Munch and their activities should also be linked with the biodiversity conservation.
TWO MONTHS (JULY & AUGUST 2017) AWARENESS CAMPAIGN FOR SCHOOL CHILDREN OF UTTARAKHAND
Awareness campaign spreading over the months of July and August 2017 was organized by the Wildlife Institute of India under Component 3 of the NMCG-WII project for school children. The main objective of this awareness campaign was to sensitize the school children on the importance of the Ganga River, its biodiversity with emphasis on the indicator species of Ganga River, emerging threats with mitigation measures and significance for conservation. During this campaign a total of 210 participants (186 school children and 24 teachers) from seven schools viz. Kendriya Vidyalaya, Indian Military Academy, Vidhya Niketan School, Kendriya Vidyalaya, ONGC, DSKSS Secondary School Chandrabani, Vanijaya Institute and Physics Academy, SGRR School of Dehradun district participated in the campaign. Students (12-17 years) were selected from secondary section of the schools. To disseminate the knowledge among the school children different modes were used, viz. Pictorial presentations, lectures and documentaries of aquatic fauna of Ganga River. The WII training team comprised of Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Deepika Dogra, Ms. Monika Sharma, Ms. Ekta Sharma, Ms. Anita Devi and Ms. Jyoti chakrawarti.
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GANGA VRIKSHAROPAN SAPTAH DATE:25TH-31ST JULY
The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) under the banner of NMCG-WII’s Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation project and part of the plantation drive, “Ganga Vriksharopan Saptah- 25th to 31st July 2017” on forestry intervention of NMCG, planted 1755 saplings in various parts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Tree species with economic, medicinal and cultural values were planted with an approach of individuals and households adopting the sapling. Volunteers from Nehru Yuva Kendra, students of various schools and colleges, members of local communities including women participated in the plantation drive. The plantation drive conducted throughout the week also marked the celebration of “World Nature Conservation Day” on the 28th of July to spread awareness about the Biodiversity Conservation of Ganga River and its Biodiversity.
Plantation was carried at 29 sites located at the banks of the Ganga River. WII team and Uttarakhand Forest Department planted saplings at Devprayag and Rishikesh. At Neem Beach, Rishikesh 80 saplings of 10 different species viz. Bauhinia variegata, Bauhinia purpurea, Cassia fistula, Emblica officinalis, Aegle marmelos, Syzygium cumini, Dabregessia hypoleuca, Azadirachta indica, Toona ciliata and Woodfordia fruticosa were planted. At Devprayag, the team planted 100 saplings of four tree species namely Morus alba, Syzygium cumini, Emblica officinalis and Terminalia bellerica. The plantation site here was named Ganga Van and will be used in future to train and sensitize people. Selected Ganga Praharis will look after the health of the sapling and ensure their survival at the Ganga Van.
At Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 300 saplings belonging to species Tectona grandis, Dalbergia sissoo, Cassia fistula, Cassia sp., Bombax ceiba and Psidium guajava were planted by villagers including women and school children at Rampur, Chandrawati, Kaithi, Dhaka, Molnapur and Gobarahan villages. At Narora, Bulandshahar site 600 saplings of Terminalia arjuna, Tamarindus indica, Pongamia pinnata, Dalbergia sissoo, Bauhinia variegata were planted at five Ganga Grams viz. Gokulpur Khader, Nayabas, Billona Roop, Haridwarpur Beheriya and Rajghat were planted. Awareness programme about Ganga Vriksharopan and Aqualife was conducted in Primary and Junior Schools in Udaygarhi, Narora where six teachers and 72 students participated. Essay writing competition on the topic Ganga and Environment Protection was organized for the students. At Primary school Naudai, Narora Drawing Competition on the topic Ganga Aqualife was organized, 50 students and two teachers participated in the programme.
In Kannauj and Farukhabad, the team planted 675 saplings of Azadirachta indica, Albizia lebbeck, Syzygium cumini, Mangifera indica, Dalbergia sissoo, Neolamarckia cadamba. The plantation drive also included the sensitization workshops on biodiversity of the Ganga River for local communities in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Forest Departments, Nehru Yuva Kendra (Varanasi) and Ganga Vichar Manch (Kannauj and Farakkhabad).
SITE 1: Rishikesh and Devprayag (Uttarakhand)
SITE 2: Varanasi, Bulandshahr, Kannauj, and Farukhabad (Uttar Pradesh)
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CONSERVATION AWARENESS AND SENSITIZATION PROGRAMME FOR STUDENTS OF SECONDARY GOVERNMENT SCHOOL, SARNATH ON 4TH JULY 2017
One day conservation awareness and sensitization programme for school students at Secondary Government School, Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh was organized on 4th July 2017. The programme began with a formal interaction between the team members of Wildlife Institute of India, Mr. Ajay Jain, Councillor, Sarnath, Varanasi and students of the Secondary Government School, Sarnath. Around 50 school children and teachers participated in this sensitization programme. The main objective of this programme was to sensitize school children on the faunal diversity of Ganga River including culture, belief and people living around it. During the programme, slogans on saving the Ganga and its biodiversity were painted on the walls of the villages around Sarnath to create awareness. After this, cleanliness drive was organized in and around the villages of Sarnath. School children, teachers and the team from Wildlife Institute of India actively participated in this cleanliness drive that started at 11.30 a.m. and continued till 2.00 p.m. The participants cleared plastic waste as well as the bio-waste. Students were sensitized on the harmful impacts of plastic use and they were also informed on its proper disposal methods. This exercise emphasized on the need to spread the message of cleanliness among the masses, so that the grand vision of cleanliness in and around the Ganga River Basin is realised. Dr. Ruchi Badola, Scientist G WII, gave a formal Vote of thanks at the end of the programme with hope that trained, sensitized and enthusiastic participants carry the noble message in their work and deeds. The WII training team comprised of Dr. Ruchi Badola, Dr. S.A. Hussain, Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Mr. Goura Chandra Das, Ms. Amanat Gill, Mr. Narendra Mohan and Ms. Suneeta Rawat.
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ONE DAY WORKSHOP ON "BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION OF TURTLES IN GANGA RIVER" FOR WELHAM BOYS SCHOOL, SARNATH ON 4TH JULY 2017
Under an initiative to enhance the awareness of students as part of the NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”, the training team organised one day training-cum-conservation awareness workshop on “Biology and conservation of Turtles in Ganga River” for Welham Boys (School) on 4th July 2017 at Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh. This event was also covered by the NDTV crew as part of their “Behtar India” initiative, in which the Welham Boys School is an active participant. The workshop was attended by students and teachers of Welham Boys School, Dehradun and their parents. The workshop was inaugurated with message to conserve and save the turtles of Ganga River by Dr. Sangeeta Angom. The programme was followed by an introductory session of the students with WII team and Mr. S.K Singh, Forest Range Officer, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, Sarnath. The students were introduced to classification, characteristics, morphology, feeding and reproductive biology of soft and hard shelled turtles. The participants were also provided hands-on training and were introduced to rehabilitation techniques for turtles by Dr. S.A. Hussain. The purpose of the workshop was to sensitize the school children on the ecological significance, importance of conservation of turtles of Ganga River, their role in cleaning the River and maintaining ecological balance in wetland ecosystem.
The workshop concluded with discussions on threats and conservation strategies of turtles of Ganga River, with emphasis on the role of students and citizens. Dr. Ruchi Badola concluded the workshop with vote of thanks and distribution of certificates to the particiapnts. The WII team included Dr. S.A. Hussain, Dr. Ruchi Badola, Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Rajeev Chauhan, Mr. Gaura Chandra Das, Mr. Vipul Maurya and Mr. Narendra Mohan.
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TRAINING CUM SENSITIZATION WORKSHOP FOR FOREST OFFICIALS ON "BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND MONITORING TECHNIQUES OF AQUATIC SPECIES OF GANGA RIVER" ON 3RD JULY 2017
Training cum sensitization workshop for forest officials on “Biodiversity Conservation and monitoring techniques of aquatic species of Ganga River” was organized on 3rd July 2017 at the Hotel SGT Plaza, near Turtle Breeding Centre, Sarnath, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh). This training workshop aimed at developing the skills of the forest department in assessing and monitoring the aqutic fauna of Ganga River. The purpose of this workshop was also to sensitize the forest officials about the biodiversity profile of Ganga River, significance of their conservation and issues associated therein. The workshop started with welcome of the participants and formal inauguration by Dr. Sangeeta Angom. The workshop was attended by 26 forest officials from Kashi Wildlife Division, Varanasi and 4 Forest Ranges (Ghazipur, Allahabad, Sarnath, Varanasi) of Uttar Pradesh Forest Department.
An introduction round was held as a warming up excercise. Dr. S. A Hussain presented an overview about the NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation” also highlighted the objectives and goals of the project. Mr. Kritish De, explained the capturing techniques for invertebrate Fauna with reference to Insects found in Ganga River basin. Mr. Bitupan Baruah gave a presentation on monitoring techniques of Aquatic Reptiles and Amphibians of Ganga River Basin with special reference to Frogs and Toad. Ms. Anuja Mittal talked about monitoring techniques of Turtles and Crocodiles of Ganga River. Mr. Vipul Maurya gave a presentation on Ecology and Biology of Gangetic River Dolphin with reference to its various monitoring techniques. Mr. Gaura Chandra Das talked about the monitoring techniques of Birds of Ganga River Basin. Dr. Ajit Kumar explained and discussed the collection techniques of various biological samples and its preservation techniques, with reference to fauna of Ganga River basin. Dr. Animesh Talukdar, talked about the case studies on Rescue and Rehabilitation of Aquatic Fauna with reference to Crocodiles and Turtles of Ganga River basin and worldwide. At the end of the workshop training impact assessment and feedback session was conducted. Dr S. A Hussain, Dr. Ruchi Badola and Dr. Sangeeta Angom, distributed the certificates to all participants and also felicitated the SDO, S.M Srivastava, Varanasi, UP for his active participation during the workshop. The session was concluded with vote of thanks by Dr. Sangeeta Angom.
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ONE DAY TRAINING CUM SENSITIZATION WORKSHOP ON "RESCUE AND REHABILITATION OF AQUATIC FAUNA AND ROLE OF DIFFERENT STAKEHOLDERS IN BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION OF GANGA RIVER" ON 28TH JUNE 2017.
The training workshop took place on 28th June 2017 at the Sabhagar Vikas Bhawan in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh. The training workshop started at 9’o clock in the morning with registration of the participant. Around 65 participants including the Chief Veterinary Officer and Staff; Divisional Forest Officer and forest Guards; S.D.M. and Staff, Sadar; S.S.P, Bulandshahr; Chief Development Officer; District Magistrate, Bulandshahr took part in the workshop. After registration Ms. Monika Sharma formally opened the workshop with a brief overview about the workshop objectives and targets. Dr. Sangeeta Angom, welcomed the participants and conducted an introduction round for each participant including the WII team member. After that Dr. Angom presented an overview about the NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”.
Mr. Animesh Talukdar, talked about the principle and techniques of rescue and rehabilitation. He explained about different tools and techniques for saving the aquatic fauna of the River Ganga. He also discussed about the emerging wildlife diseases with special reference to aquatic fauna of River Ganga. Ms. Anuja Mittal talked about biology and behaviour of Turtles and Crocodiles. Mr. Aftab Alam Usmani talked about biology of Gangetic Dolphin and gave a detailed overview on technique and tools helpful for handling, capture and rescue of Gangetic Dolphin. Mr. Bitupan Boruah presented an overview on diseases of Amphibians with special reference to Frogs and Toad and their distribution. During his talk he also explained the documented methods, tools and techniques to study the population status of Amphibians, taxonomy, distribution patterns and emerging chytridiomycosis diseases as one of the threat to Amphibian diversity. Each presentation was followed by questions and discissions session. The participating officers of different departments appreciated the efforts made by the WII team. The C.D.O, Mrs. Jaspreet Kaur and Superintendent of Police Mr. P.K Tiwari motivated the participants to sensitize their fellow officers in their respective departments, on the need to restore the biological diversity of River Ganga. The workshop ended with certificate distribution and Vote of Thanks by Miss Ekta Sharma.
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QUIZ COMPETITION ORGANIZED ON THE OCCASION OF WORLD CROCODILE DAY AT THE MALSI DEER PARK, DEHRADUN ON 17TH JUNE 2017.
The NMCG-WII project team celebrated the “World Crocodile Day” on 17th June, 2017 at the auditorium of the Malsi Deer Park (Dehradun Zoo). 55 participants, including the students and faculty of different colleges from Dehradun participated in this event with great enthusiasm. Ganga river provides habitat to three species of Crocodiles, and mythological creature Makar- half crocodile and half dolphin is known as vahan of the Godess Ganga. The purpose of this programme therefore was to sensitize the students about the ecological significance, habitat and distribution of crocodiles of Ganga River and conservation issues associated therein. An inter-college quiz competition was organized as part of this event on the theme: The Crocodile: Vahana of Vibrant Ganga. A total of five teams from colleges of Dehradun participated in the quiz programme. Ms. Amanat Gill conducted the quiz. There were a total of four rounds. In the qualifying round the participants were asked questions on classification, scientific and common names of Crocodiles, and the IUCN status. The other rounds had questions on Crocodile’s population worldwide and in India, distribution status, National Park famous for Crocodile, morphology and physiology, reproduction biology of the species. The quiz started at 10:00 a.m. and continued till 12.00 p.m. Certificates for the winning teams were distributed by Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Training Coordinator, NMCG-WII. The first prize was awarded to the team of Doon University, second was the team from Dayanand Brijendra Swarup PG College, and third was the team from Sardar Bhagwan Singh PG Institute of Biomedical and Natural Sciences and consolation prize was given to the team of Dolphin (PG) Colleges of Biomedical and Natural Sciences. During the programme, a group of enthusiastic special need kids from “Arunima” NGO also participated and cheered up the teams of colleges.
The WII team included Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Dr. Sandhya Joshi, Mr. Ravindra Nath Tripathi, Ms. Hemlata Khanduri, Ms. Shatakshi Sharma and Ms Suneeta Rawat
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3 DAYS TRAINING CUM SENSITIZATION WORKSHOP FOR POST GRADUATE STUDENTS ON CAPACITY BUILDING OF BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION OF GANGA RIVER AND ITS HABITAT ON 12TH TO 14TH JUNE 2017
A three days “Training cum Sensitization Workshop” for Post-graduates Students was organized at the WII headquarters, Dehradun during 12th to 14th June 2017. The target participants were post-graduate students from Doon University, SAI Group of Institutions, Dehradun, Indraprastha University, Delhi, Aligarh Muslim University, Uttar Pradesh and MSU, Gujarat. 65 participants took part in the training programme. The training was provided to develop the capacity of post graduate student’s on aquatic fauna of Ganga river, and issues pertaining to their conservation. The training also aimed to develop the skills of the students in assessing and monitoring the biodiversity of Ganga River.
The workshop was started with a brief introduction to the objectives and goals of the project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation”. In the technical session, an overeview of the importance of river and wetland ecosystem, with reference to Ganga river was provided. Information on fish, amphibian, repitlian and avain diversity of Ganga River, and techniques for identification of species was provided. The participants were introduced to the social and cultural value of Ganga River, different sources of Ganga River pollution, and mitigation measures to minimise the pollution level. On second half of the first day, the participants were introduced to the studies on ecotoxicology, and detection of eco-toxicants in Ganga River and other river ecosystems of the World. They were also educated about the capturing techniques for Invertebrate Fauna with reference to Insects as an indicator species in a freshwater ecosystem.
On the second day, the participants were introduced to the principle and techniques of rescue and rehabilitation of aquatic fauna, viz. crocodiles and turtles. The participants were educated on the collection techniques of various biological samples including fresh and decomposed tissue, burnt samples, ashes etc. its preservation techniques, species identification and sequencing with reference to fauna of Ganga River basin. The participants were also introduced to data profiling, integration, enrichment, monitoring and evaluation related to data management software. During the second half of the day the participants were divided into six groups for a group activity. The groups were told to discuss and write down their perspective on the issues related to benefits from Ganga and detrimental actions towards Ganga River and the solutions for resolving these issues.
A guided nature trail was organized on the first half of the third day, with the aim to provide the participants an exposure to the identifications and monitoring techniques of birds and habitat. Later, they were given hands-on training on genetic techniques related to preservation of biological samples, DNA extraction protocols, sequencing techniques and interpretations. Feedback session was conducted at the end of the training programme, which was followed by certificate distribution ceremony and a group photograph.
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CULMINATION PROGRAMME OF GANGA JAIV-VIVIDHTA PADYATRA ON 9TH JUNE 2017 AT TRIVENI GHAT RISHIKESH
The program informally started with the welcoming of the 13 padyatris coming after a long ardous journey of 9 days, which started from Devprayag on 1st June 2017 and culminated at Triveni Ghat on 9th June 2017. Participants from Wildlife Institute of India (WII), including researchers, staff and other faculty members headed by Dr. Ruchi Badola and Padamshree Dr. Anil P. Joshi cleaned the Triveni ghat. After arrival of chief guest Mr. P. Aggarwal, Mr. U.P. Singh and other dignitaries, the program formally started. Dr. Ruchi Badola, program coordinator of NMCG-Ganga, gave a welcome speech and introduced the dignitaries to the audience. Dr. G.S. Rawat, dean WII addressed the audience and stressed on the importance of the Himalayas and Ganga for the whole nation. He urged everyone to be like King Bhagirath and continue his legacy by striving to protect the integrity of Ganga just like he strived to bring Ganga to earth and ensured it flowed in its full force. Padamshree Dr. Anil P. Joshi, who flagged-off the padyatra in Devprayag, took over the dais and reinstated the need for people and government to work together for this cause. Mr. U.P. Singh mused about his connection with Ganga, how he ended up being a part of the project and expressed his gratitude towards Sushri Uma Bharti for providing all the necessary support to him and the project.
The 13 pad-yatris were felicitated by Mr. P. Aggarwal, Mr. U.P. Singh and Dr. A.P. Joshi. Dr. Dobriyal, who headed the village survey team, mentioned the path that they took for padyatra was an old yatra marg. She also said that it was interesting to see that people were welcoming and already knew why Ganga is important religiously and ecologically. Dr. Maurya, who headed the ecological survey team, was excited to share that even in difficult times and conditions they could work and achieve the results. Mr. P. Aggarwal, the chief guest for the evening, took over the dais and shared his thoughts with the audience. He rued that pollution from various sources have changed Ganga ‘swaroop’ or how it looks and credited hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this revitalized effort to clean Ganga. He also said that awareness has increased among the people regarding Ganga and its conservation and appreciated the efforts of the WII NMCG team for enhancing it further. He accentuated that Ganga has something special about it that is rejuvenating and energizing and which is why it should be saved and conserved before it’s too late. He praised the padyatris for their untiring efforts and requested everyone present to make a resolution of not letting Ganga get any dirtier. Dr. G.S. Rawat presented photographs depicting aqualife of Ganga as memento to Mr. P. Aggarwal, Mr. U.P. Singh and Dr. A.P. Joshi. The program ended with recital of the Ganga geet composed by Dr. Sandhya Joshi
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WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY CELEBRATION ON 5TH JUNE 2017 AT FOREST RESEARCH INSTITUTE DEHRADUN.
On 5th June 2017, on the occasion of World Environment Day, the project activities under the “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation” were showcased at the FRI’s exhibition titled “Van-Dhan” through electronic and print media on the theme “The Vibrant Ganga”. The project progress was displayed with the audio-visual aid. The print media containing information on the aquatic biodiversity of Ganga River – aquatic mammals, reptiles, breeding birds and fishes, were displayed. Drawings made by school children, earlier on 23rd May 2017 on the occasion of World Turtle Day were also displayed at the event. The project team comprising of Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Shivani Barthwal, Ms. Michelle Irengbam and Mr. Ravindra Nath Tripathi, participated in this event.
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WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY CELEBRATION ON 5TH JUNE 2017 AT NAPS NARORA BULANDSAHR UP.
The Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun and Narora Atomic Power Station (NAPS), Narora celebrated the World Environment Day in Ganga Aqualife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center at NAPS STP facility under the “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation” project. The occasion was honored by the gracious presence of Sushri Uma Bharti, Honorable Cabinet Minister, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. On her way to “Ganga Nirikshan Yatra” she visited the NAPS-WII Facility where rescued freshwater turtles are taken care before releasing in the Ganga River. On this occasion she planted an “Ashoka” tree in the Ganga Aqualife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre. She interacted with Dr. S.A. Hussain, Project Coordinator, WII and Mr. Subhashish Patra, Maintenance Superintendent, NAPS and all the WII and NAPS team and encouraged them to construct more centers for the biodiversity conservation. She acknowledged and appreciated the efforts and work done by WII with the support of NAPS towards the conservation of Ganga aqualife. She also told that this year’s World Environment Day theme “Connecting People with Nature” is not new to Indian traditional practices and beliefs and that with our daily small efforts we can contribute in making our environment more sustainable and feel more connected with nature.
On the occasion of World Environment Day, 50 students from schools in Narora actively participated in the awareness programme organized by WII in Ganga Aqualife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre. Dr. Niladri Dasgupta, Project Scientist, interacted with the students and informed them about the aquatic faunal diversity of the Ganga River.
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ONE DAY STAKEHOLDER WORKSHOP ON 31ST MAY 2017 AT DEVPRAYAG UTTARAKHAND
One-day stakeholder workshop was organized in Devprayag on 31st May 2017. The workshop was attended by 60 people, representing the Uttarakhand Forest Department, HNB Garhwal University, Block Development Officials, Panchaytai raj Officials, Devprayag- Nagar Palika, Members of Ganga Aarti Samiti, Srinagar, Education Department, Himalaya Bachao Andolan – Srinagar, Mountain Development Research Centre, Representative Local community.
Shri GK Rustogi, Conservator of Forest, Pauri Circle, Uttarakhand Forest Department was the chief guest for the workshop. Dr. Shivani Barthwal welcomed the chief guest and the participants for the workshop. Dr. Ruchi Badola introduced the Wildlife Institute of India and the Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation project. Dr. S.A. Hussain talked about the role of local communities in maintaining Ganga’s sanctity. Dr Hussain informed the participants about the two types of rivers: snow-fed and rain-fed, the snow-fed rivers having a higher resilience. He told the gathering that the views of the stakeholders are important for revival of Ganga river. He also emphasized the need of reducing the water spillover through faulty agricultural and water abstraction practices. Professor M.S. Panwar, Head Department of Geography H.N.B Garhwal University, spoke on the issues of the Upper Ganga stretch. He emphasized the importance of the small streams or tributaries of main river both ecologically as well as culturally. He also talked about Ganga literacy and emphasized on spring revival through people’s participation and documentation of Ganga’s geology. Dr. Darmoda of Mountain Development Research Centre spoke about the problems arising due to dams in Srinagar that has resulted in dry stretches of the river for about 3 km in the area. He also informed that there is no sanitation facility for about 7000 laborers employed by various development projects in Srinagar. He talked the efforts put by the Ganga Aarti Samiti for plantation and cleaning of stretches of the river in Srinagar. DFO Tehri, Dr. Kokorose, told that the pollution in Ganga is as extensive as its reach. He said that Ganga river is surrounded by both agricultural as well as urban landscapes. Local communities involvement in plantation along Ganga is critical for Ganga conservation. Shri Rustogi, Conservator spoke about the importance of tributaries in maintaining the flow of the Ganga River and conserving the biodiversity of the tributaries. He informed about the plan to carry out afforestation along 5 km banks of the Ganga River. He spoke about integrated approach for Ganga rejuvenation and also spoke about consultation with the local community. Prof AK Bharadwaj, WII, told that Ganga is a culture, and the Panchayti Raj Institutions can play an important role in reviving Ganga. Shri Naithani of the Ganga Aarti Samiti, emphasized for the need of sewer and waste disposal.
The inaugural session was followed by high tea. Thereafter, the stakeholders were informed about the agenda and the group activity. For the group activity the stakeholders were divided into three groups, which had representatives from all the departments present on the occasion. The groups were told to discuss and write down their perspective on the issues of the Ganga and the solutions for resolving these issues
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UNIVERSITY STUDENT WORKSHOP ON 30TH MAY 2017 AT DEVPRAYAG UTTARAKHAND :
As part of the NMGC and Wildlife Institute of India project “Biodiversity conservation and Ganga rejuvenation” a One-day Training cum Workshop was organized for graduates, post-graduate, PhD students and teachers, of colleges of Devprayag and Srinangar at Sangam Ghat, Devprayag on the confluence of Bhagirathi, Alaknanda and Saraswati in Devprayag. During the workshop Dr. Ruchi Badola, Scientist-G gave an over view of the project and its objectives highlighting the role of students in Biodiversity conservation of River Ganga. Dr. Shivani Barthwal, Project Associate gave a talk on Importance of river and wetland ecosystem followed by a detailed description on biodiversities in River Ganga by Dr. Niladri Dasgupta, Project Scientist. Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Training Coordinator, enriched the students about Ganga River pollution, its solution and suggested mitigation measures that can be done at an individual level. Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Project Scientist enlightened the role of community in the conservation of ecological issues in Ganga River. All the participating students were given certificated by Dr SA Hussain the project coordinator.
It was decided during the workshop that the students would actively participate to conserve the biodiversity of Ganga River in its upper reaches and work for its cleanliness. Sh. Arvind Singh Jiyal, Former student leader at Omkaranad Saraswati Government degree College, Devprayag would be facilitating the formation of a Youth Group of students called ‘Devbhumi Ganga Prahari’ from various colleges around the area. These Praharis enthusiastically said that they would work dedicatedly for conservation and rejuvenation of Ganga River.
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QUIZ DRAWING AND PAINTING COMPETITION ORGANISED ON THE OCCASION OF 'WORLD TURTLE DAY' AT THE SCHOOL OF UTTRAKHAND AND UTTARPRADESH ON 23rd MAY 2017
On the Occasion of “World Turtle Day” the project team organized an awareness programmes to sensitize the school children on the theme ‘Conservation of Turtles of Ganga’ and their role in cleaning the Ganga River and maintaining ecological balance in wetland ecosystem. The programme was conducted at Government Secondary School Sewla Kala, Raipur, Dehradun, and Saraswati Shiksha Sandan Academy Chandrabani, Dehradun and Rajghat Gram Panchayat, Narora, Uttar Pradesh.
Around 200 students actively participated in the awareness programmes at both the sites in Dehradun and Narora. The workshop was commenced by Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Training Coordinator, in two schools of Dehradun introducing the importance of turtles and outlines the existence of turtles in ancient literature and mythological religious belief of Vishnu taking the “Kurma avtar” during Samudra Manthan. A round of introduction of all the students of the workshop was conducted. Dr. Niladri Dasgupta discussed about the pictorial identifications of species of turtles found in Ganga River and their threats and conservation strategies with the students and teachers. Brochures on aqutic fauna of Ganga were distributed to the students. Drawing competitions were organized for students and participants were encouraged to put their thoughts and experiences about turtles of Ganga on canvas. Best five drawings were chosen and certificates and prizes were distributed to the students. At Narora sites, painting competition was organized. The students and teachers at both the locations responded with great enthusiasm and expressed that it was a great learning experience.
Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Dr. Deepika Dogra, Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Niladri Dasgupta organized the event in Dehradun, and Ms. Shashi Joshi, Ms. Monika Mehralu, Ms. Vaishali Debnath, Ms. Anindita Debnath organized the event in Narora.
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ONE DAY STAKEHOLDER TRAINING WORKSHOP, NARORA UTTAR PRADESH ON 18TH MAY 2017 :
The Wildlife Institute of India under NMCG-WII Project ‘Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation’ organized a One Day Stakeholder Training Workshop in Narora, Bulandshahr District, Uttar Pradesh for Panchayat members of villages in Narora. The workshop was organized to sensitize the Panchayat members about the objectives and approaches of the project and make them aware about the ecological, economic and social value of the Ganga River. The Workshop was organized on 18th May 2017 in Uday Prabhat Guest House, Narora, Uttar Pradesh. The Chairman, Narora Nagar Panchayat, Pradhans and their respective ward members actively participated in the workshop. The workshop was started with the "Ganga Geet" on Aquatic Biodiversity of the Ganga River composed and sung by Dr. Sandhya Joshi.
The main aim of the workshop was to disseminate information and spread awareness about the mission, objectives and activities of the project, ecological significance and status of the aquatic biodiversity found in the Ganga River such as Gangetic Dolphins (Platanista gangetica), Mugger (Crocodylus palustris), Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), breeding and resident birds and turtles and social, cultural and economic importance of the Ganga River. During the workshop the significant role and active involvement of the local communities and stakeholders at various levels was also discussed. With respect to alternate livelihood options the participants were made aware about the government schemes and agencies that are working on skill development for youth and women.
During this workshop, Memorandum of Understandings were signed between Wildlife Institute of India and Gram Panchayats of Bulandshahar, Uttar Pradesh which entails the Gram Panchayats pledging support for conservation of the Ganga biodiversity.
Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Dr. Sandhya Joshi, Ms. Hemlata Khanduri, Ms. Shashi Joshi, Ms. Aditi Dev, Ms. Monika Mehralu, Ms. Vaishali Vasudev, Ms. Anindita Debnath, from the Wildlife Institute of India, organized this workshop.
Images -One Day Stakeholder Training Workshop held on 18th May 2017 in Narora, Uttar Pardesh
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BIODIVERSITY PROFILING:
- The first phase of assessment of aquatic biodiversity of Ganga is being carried out form Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh till Farakka in West Bengal. Our team has already carried out survey in a 570 km stretch between Bijnor to Kanpur during 14th-25th April, 2017. The survey from Kanpur to Farakka is presently underway.
- National aquatic animal ‘Dolphin’, Gharial, Mugger, wetland birds, freshwater turtles, frogs and snakes were encountered during the survey. Assessment of this information is undergoing for comprehensive biodiversity profiling of Ganga River.
- Siebold’s smooth scaled water snake (Enhydris sieboldii) was reported after 70 years from the main stem of Ganga River.
Habitat assesment for the aquatic diversity along the banks of Ganga River :
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PARTICIPATION IN GANGA SWACHHTA PAKHWADA, HARIDWAR.
A team from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) comprising of 3 faculty members, namely, Dr. Gautam Talukdar, Dr. Suresh Kumar and Dr. Sandeep Kumar Gupta, along with 5 research scholars and 2 resource persons participated in the Ganga Swachhta Pakhwada, organized in Haridwar on 31st March, 2017, by the Centre for Environment Education (CEE) and Divya Prem Sewa Mission (DPSM) and supported by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. Shri Madan Kaushik, Minister of Urban Development, Government of Uttarakhand, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Other dignitaries present at the event were Shri U. P. Singh ‐ Director General NMCG, Shri Manoj Garg ‐ Mayor of Haridwar and Shri S. A. Murugesan ‐ District Magistrate of Haridwar.
The event commenced with an exhibition of posters designed by CEE and WII informing people about Ganga River and the work that has been carried out by the two institutes. A “padyatra” along the Ganga River from Ganga Ghat to Chandi Ghat and adopt a Ghat campaign was organized followed by the ‘Swachh Ganga’ pledge. The programme at Chandi Ghat included performances like dance on the ‘Namami Gange’ anthem by school children, dance on Ganesh Vandana, classical dance depicting the story of the Ganga River and a street play and drama on the plight of the Ganga River.
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RESCUE AND REHABILITION CENTRES :
Turtle rearing and rehabilitation centres at Varanasi and Narora were adopted and upgraded as Rescue and Rehabilitation Centres
Turtle Rearing Facility Narora |
Turtle Rehabilitation Centre Sarnath |
Centre 1 (a): Rescue Rehabilition centre Narora NAPS Bulansahr UP
Centre 1 (b): Turtle Rescue and Release Operation Narora NAPS Bulansahr UP
Centre 2 (a): Turtle Rearing Facility Sarnath UP
Centre 2 (b): Rescue and Release Operation Sarnath UP
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LAUNCH OF NAMAMI GANGE PROGRAMME ON 7TH JULY 2016 :
Ganga Knowledge Centres launched at the five sites, including Ganga Aqualife Conservation and Monitoring Centre at WII, Dehra Dun, on 7th July 2016. Other National launch programmes at
Last Updated: July 15, 2019