NMCG 2019


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WILDLIFE WEEK CELEBRATION AT KANPUR ZOOLOGICAL PARK

Wildlife week was celebrated by the NMCG Component-6 team at the Kanpur Zoological Park. The events were organized throughout the week from 1st to 7th October, 2019. There were a series of events starting with a rally, fancy dress, quiz, essay writing and painting competition. There was a footfall of about 2,500 students throughout the week from different schools in and around Kanpur. The quiz competition was held in two sections: junior and senior students with two students in each team. Essay writing competition was held for three categories: sub-junior, junior and senior students. Special activities were organized for the special need students (deaf and dumb) to involve them in the celebration. While the students were busy with their activities, Teacher Trainings on how teachers can engage students in the activity-based learning experience were held for the teachers accompanying the students. They were introduced to teacher’s study manual ‘Discovering Ganga’ which is about the importance of Ganga river, its course from source to sea, harmful effects of pollution and importance of river and its biodiversity. Teachers can engage students in the activity-based learning experience. A felicitation ceremony was held on 7th October for the winners of all the competitions held throughout the week.  These activities were held under the aggies of ‘Gangaridai-Eco Club’.

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WILDLIFE WEEK CELEBRATIONS IN HARSHIL

The National Mission for Clean Ganga, component-6 Nature Interpretation and Education for biodiversity conservation of Ganga river of Wildlife Institute of India organized various awareness programs and cleanliness drives on Wildlife week from 1st to 4th October, 2019 in Government schools of Harshil district spreading awareness about Ganga river biodiversity and plastic pollution.
The program started with the presentation regarding biodiversity of Ganga and how the activities of mankind contribute directly and indirectly to the degradation of the river system.
For a realistic approach a digital story related to aquatic animal (turtle) of Ganga was shown in the schools, to engage students in the ongoing discussion.
“Gangaridai” Eco club was formed in schools to make a cadre of motivated students for river conservation. The students wrote slogans on Save Ganga and its biodiversity and recycling of plastic bottles and they also participated in a rally through the town of Harshil.
Cleanliness drive was carried out by the students and teachers to do their responsibility towards making this earth clean and green. A total of 74 students and 20 teachers participated in the event.

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PANORAMA -  AN INTRODUCTORY WORKSHOP  11TH SEPTEMBER, 2019

The Wildlife Institute of India organized an interactive hands-on half day workshop on PANORAMA on 11th September 2019 at the Institute. The workshop was hosted by the “Biodiversity and Ganga Conservation” project of National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG). PANORAMA – Solutions for a Healthy Planet is a partnership initiative to document and promote examples of inspiring, replicable solutions across a range of conservation and sustainable development topics, enabling cross-sectoral learning and inspiration.

PANORAMA uses a modular case study format that identifies replicable key success for solution case studies and describes the context in which the solution was developed. This learning and innovation methodology relies on peer-to-peer exchange and is applicable across topics, sectors, and audiences. All PANORAMA solutions adhere to defined quality standards and are peer-reviewed by subject matter experts before publication. Solutions are shared on the online platform and through publications. They are also integrated into capacity development activities and workshops. 

The workshop was conducted by Ms Marie Fischborn, Lead, Protected Area Solutions, Global Protected Areas Programme, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The workshop commenced with welcome of Ms. Marie Fischborn by Dr. Ruchi Badola, Scientist G and Project co-ordinator NMCG WII project. Director WII, Dr. G.S. Rawat spoke about the necessity of sharing and learning from conservation experiences worldwide. 

The workshop was attended by 35 participants from WII. Ms. Fischborn demonstrated PANORAMA web platform, with solution examples. She further explained the process for submitting a solution. Participants then worked in seven groups and defined and documented “solution” case studies from their work. The “Solutions” were initially noted down on paper and displayed using the coloured cards, pinboards and flipcharts. These “solutions” were discussed and reviewed by the workshop facilitators and modified for submitting online. These case study drafts which were later uploaded on the web platform for review. In following up from the workshop, these drafts will be reviewed by the PANORAMA expert reviewer network, and, if eligible, will eventually be published and promoted to a global audience.

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CONSERVATION AWARENESS PROGRAMMES” ON THE OCCASION OF “WORLD POPULATION DAY” FOR SCHOOL CHILDREN AT HARIDWAR, UTTARAKHAND ON 11th July, 2019

On the occasion of ‘World Population Day,’ a conservation awareness programme was organised to sensitize the students on how the relentless human population explosion along the Ganga and the resulting demand for food and other resources, has burdened the Ganga river. The programme was conducted on 11th July 2019 at Jwalapur Inter College, Haridwar for the students of class 6th to 12th with the aim to explain and sensitize about the conservation of biodiversity of Ganga River and its importance to human life and how over-increase in the human population is creating a threat to Ganga and its aqualife conservation. A total of 900 students and 15 teachers participated in the awareness programme. The programme started with the registration of participants. Thereafter Dr. Sangeeta Angom explained about the WII-NMCG “Biodiversity and Ganga Conservation” project and its objectives through a presentation. Along with this she also informed about the different aquatic species that are found in the Ganga River and their importance. Other than this, a series of activities and exercises related to Ganga’s biodiversity was conducted for students of class 6th to 8th. The workshop concluded by distribution of the prizes, certificates to the winners of the quiz and exercises. Species information brochures, caps and refreshments were also distributed to the participants.

Significance of World Population Day Celebration Significance of World Population Day Celebration Explaining the rules and guidelines of quiz competition and activities
Interaction with participants Describing the major biodiversity of Ganga River Registration of the Participants

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AWARENESS WORKSHOP FOR GANGA PRAHARI – 26TH JUNE 2019, KOLKATA, WEST BENGAL

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in collaboration with the West Bengal Forest Department organized one day awareness workshop for Ganga Praharis at Bana Bhawan, Salt lake, Kolkata, West Bengal. This workshop was held under the Project “Biodiversity and Ganga Conservation”, a Nammai Gange initiative.

The workshop marked the presence of Sh. Rabindra Saha, DCF/DFO (Barrackpore), Sh. Saurav Gawan, Conservation biologist from WII and thirty Ganga Praharis from different parts of West Bengal.
The workshop began with the registrations of the participants, followed by a welcome address by Sh. Saurav Gawan. He introduced the participants and Guests to the NMCG-WII Project activities in the five Ganga States, highlighting the six major components of the project, progress made so far and its future plans in conservation of Biodiversity of Ganga River.

During the second session the participants were introduced to the role and responsibilities of being a Ganga Praharis and importance of involving local communities for ensuring sustainability of the conservation efforts. Since conservation of Ganga Aqualife is the ultimate goal of the project, a session highlighting the Biodiversity of Ganga River was also held. Sh. Gawan informed them about the rescue and rehabilitation center that is being developed in Barrakpore, West Bengal.

The workshop was unique in a way that a special session was introduced where the Ganga Praharis were demonstrated on handling of species of Ganga River with the use of cloth models (replica of the species). These techniques can be used by the Ganga Praharis in case they sight an animal in distress in their surroundings. Presence of the State Forest Official Sh. R.N. Saha, made the event special as he shared his field expereinces with participants. He emphasized that any program or policy or law can work best when various stakeholder groups come together and awareness workshop such as this is one such event. He further added that the West Bengal Forest Department looks forward to this collaboration as a success for times to come and work for a cause of conserving nature and natural resources. YouTube episodes on Ganga Prahari “A life less ordinary- Ganga Prahari the guardians of the Ganga” and the Namami Gange Official Song were also screened for the participants. The workshop ended with a discussion session on how we can come contribute and work at an individual level for a clean and vibrant Ganga.

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STATE LEVEL TRAINING WORKSHOP FOR GANGA PRAHARIS ON “BIODIVERSITY MONITORING AND RESCUE AND REHABILITATION TECHNIQUES OF AQUATIC SPECIES OF GANGA RIVER” ON 22ND and 23RD JUNE, 2019 AT BHAGALPUR, BIHAR.

A state level two days training workshop on ‘Biodiversity Monitoring and rescue and rehabilitation techniques of Aquatic Species of Ganga River’ was organized for the Ganga Praharis of Bihar on 22nd and 23rd June, 2019, at Aranya Bhawan, Sundarvan, Bhagalpur. The aim of the workshop was to develop the capacity of the Ganga Praharis about the biodiversity of Ganga River, their conservation, and on rescue and rehabilitation techniques. 50 Ganga Praharis from Munger, Kahalgan, Naugachia, along with 10 students of T.M.B.U College, Bhagalpur participated in the workshop.
The workshop comprised of two technical sessions, viz. biodiversity of Ganga and rescue & rehabilitation techniques of aquatic macrofauna and a field visit to the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary. The technical session highlighted the biological characteristics of Dolphins, Otters, Crocodilians, Turtles, and Birds, and the principles of rescue & rehabilitation of aquatic fauna. Practical session comprised of demonstration of techniques for handling and restraint of aquatic macrofauna. A team building exercise was conducted to highlight the importance of coordination between Ganga Praharis, Forest Department and the community for better biodiversity conservation and Ganga rejuvenation process.

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STATE LEVEL TRAINING WORKSHOP FOR FOREST OFFICIALS ON “BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND MONITORING TECHNIQUES OF AQUATIC SPECIES OF GANGA RIVER” ON 20TH AND 21ST JUNE, 2019 AT BHAGALPUR, BIHAR.

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun conducted a two day state level training workshop on “Biodiversity conservation and monitoring techniques of aquatic species of Ganga River” on 20th and 21st June, 2019 at Aranya Bhawan, Sundarvan, Bhagalpur for Bihar Forest Department officials. The aim of the workshop was to augment knowledge of forest staff about the biodiversity of Ganga River, their conservation, management and the challenges associated therein. 38 forest officials inclusive of DFOs, RFOs and frontline staff participated in the workshop from 8 forest divisions viz., Bhagalpur, Munger, Kahalgaon, Supaul, Banka, Jamui, Birpur, Purnea and Araria; and one forest range Kahalgaon, of the Bihar forest department. Spearhead team members from the Bihar Forest Department also participated in this program and assisted in organising this workshop. The workshop comprised of two technical sessions, viz. monitoring biodiversity and participatory management and field visit to the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary in Bhagalpur. A group activity was also conducted to highlight the importance of coordination between frontline forest staff, higher officials and the community for better conservation of Ganga and its biodiversity

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CELEBRATION OF WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY AT GOVERNMENT INTER COLLEGE, HARSIL, UTTARAKHAND  (5TH JUNE, 2019) .

World Environment Day 2019 was celebrated at Government Inter College, Harsil, Uttarakhand on 7th June 2019 by Education for Biodiversity Conservation Team (NMCG Project).
This year’s theme for World Environment Day was ‘Beat Air pollution’with a focus on encouraging government, industry, communities, and individuals to come together to explore renewable energy and green technologies that will help improve air quality in cities and regions across the world.
As part of the activities, students and teachers of the Government Inter College, Harsil, Uttarkashi were sensitized about air pollution, its impacts and were encouraged to get involved in fighting air pollution by introducing minor changes in their daily routine.
A letter was written by the students to the citizens of India requesting to help in beating Air pollution.
Plantation drive was carried out by the students and the teachers to do their bit towards making this planet clean and green.A total number of 41 students and 8 teachers participated in the celebration.
The event was also registered under global movement to Beat Air Pollution by United Nations Environment Programme.

 

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WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY CELEBRATION AT THE ASHOK HOTEL, NEW DELHI ON 5TH JUNE, 2019.

An event was organized by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), on 5th June, 2019, to celebrate World Environment day, at The Ashok, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Government of India, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, was the Chief Guest of the event. The dignitaries on the dais included Shri Rattan Lal Kataria, Hon’ble Minister of State for Jal Shakti and Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India; Shri U.P Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti; Shri Rajiv Ranjan Mishra, Director General, NMCG; Shri G. Asok Kumar, Mission Director, National Water Mission & Executive Director (Projects), NMCG; and Dr. Jasper Wieck, Deputy Head of Mission, German Embassy, New Delhi. Eminent policy planners, scientists and conservationists representing NMCG, Wildlife Institute of India (WII), The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), World Wide fund (WWF), and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur, graced the occasion with their presence. 70 Ganga Praharis from five Ganga River states, project personnel of the NMCG-WII project ‘Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation’ and awardees of the Ganga Quest 2019, also participated in the event.
20 Ganga Praharis from the five Ganga River states, were awarded certificates by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, for their contribution in Ganga conservation activities under three categories viz., awareness, rescue & rehabilitation and role during the Kumbh Mela, 2019, held at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The NMCG-WII team members lead by Dr. Ruchi Badola and Dr. Syed Ainul Hussain were felicitated for their exemplary contribution in the Kumbh Mela, 2019. The awardees were Dr. Pariva Dobriyal, Dr. Rajeev Chauhan, Dr. Deepika Dogra, Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Mr. Vipul Maurya, Mr. Rahul Rana, Ms. Sunita Rawat, Ms. Aditi Dev, Ms. Advaita Ravindran, Mohd. Rahil Khan, Mr. Ratish Singh and Mr. Keshav Kumar.  
Afterward the publications “Ganga Prahari Kumbh Programme Report, 2019”, “Village Level Microplanning for Ganga Biodiversity Conservation: A Guideline” and “Five Village Microplans”, were released by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The “Ganga Prahari Kumbh Programme Report” provides information on the activities carried out by the Ganga Praharis during Kumbh 2019. These Ganga Praharis assisted WII-NMCG team and Kumbh Management Authority in creating awareness, cleanliness of Kumbh ground and visitor management at the NMCG Pavilion. The “Village Level Microplanning for Ganga Biodiversity Conservation: A Guideline”document will guide various institutions in planning site-specific solutions to address the conservation and developmental issues of the Ganga grams. It will also guide in linking and implementing government schemes at village level for biodiversity sensitive development. Based on the microplan guideline, village microplans were prepared for five Gram Panchayats of Uttar Pradesh viz., Rajghat and Udaigarhi of Bulandshahr district, and Rampur, Domari and Dhaka of Varanasi district. These microplans will help in streamlining Ganga conservation and village development.

 

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 “WORLD TURTLE DAY” CELEBRATION ACROSS GANGA STATES ON 23rd MAY 2019

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun and National Mission for Clean Ganga under the project “Biodiversity and Ganga Conservation” organized a “Sensitization and Conservation awareness programme” on the occasion of World Turtle day on 23rd May 2019 across the Ganga states. The event was organized to spread awareness among the school children about the significance of biodiversity conservation of Ganga River, with a focus on turtle species of Ganga river and their significance to the environment. The event was conducted by WII team comprising of Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Ms. Suneeta Rawat, Ms. Monika Mehralu, Mr. Rahil Khan, Mr. Keshav Kumar, Mr. Ratish Singh, Ms. Camellia Biswas, and Ganga Praharis from Uttarkashi, Varanasi and Narora.

UTTARKASHI, UTTARAKHAND

A sensitization and conservation awareness programme was organised at Government Girls Inter College, Uttarkashi. More than 200 middle school and high school students (class 6th to 11th), 3 teachers and 3 Ganga Praharis attended the programme. Dr. Sangeeta Angom, gave an overview of Ganga and its biodiversity, and the efforts being made by the Government of India, for conservation. Various activities including quiz were organized for the students. Subsequently, an interactive session was held, during which the participants were introduced to aquatic faunal species found in Ganga river including turtles and tortoise. Besides thorough description of turtles and tortoise was provided to the participants. The students were given mementoes, certificates and publications at the end of the event.

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH
An awareness rally was organised with local communities and Ganga Praharis at the bank of Ganga River from Dhaka to Molnapur, Varanasi. The rally was conducted to create awareness among the fisherman community about the entanglement of turtles in the net and safely releasing the entangled individuals in their habitat.

NARORA, UTTAR PRADESH
An awareness workshop was conducted at Nibari Khader village, Narora, Uttar Pradesh by five trained Ganga Praharis. The Ganga Praharis imparted information to the participants on importance of turtles of Ganga River. A total of 52 local people were present during the event.

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SENSITIZATION WORKSHOP ON “FOREST FIRE MANAGEMENT TO SAVE THE BIODIVERSITY OF UTTARKASHI FORESTS” ON 22ND MAY, 2019

A Sensitization workshop was organised in collaboration with spearhead team of Uttarakhdn Forest Department from Uttarkashi on “Forest Fire Management to save the biodiversity of Uttarkashi forests” on 22nd May, 2019 at Mando Village, Uttarkashi. The program aimed at augmenting capacities of forest staff at various levels in managing biodiversity conservation and calamities at emergent situation. DFO Sandeep Kumar gave a talk on Forest Fire Management in terms of saving the biodiversity. He conferred on how participation of ‘Van Panchayats’ and local communities is very important when it comes to instant control of forest fires. The WII team discussed various aspects of conservation of biodiversity of Ganga River and related issues with the forest department and how their association will further help in mobilizing the idea of conservation among the local villagers. A total of 60 participants attended the workshop.

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“INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY” CELEBRATION ACROSS GANGA RIVER STATES ON 22ND MAY, 2019

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun and National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) under the project “Biodiversity and Ganga Conservation” celebrated “International day for Biological Diversity” on 22nd May 2019 across Ganga River States. The theme of the 2019 International day for Biological Diversity was ‘Our Biodiversity, Our Food, Our Health’.

UTTARKASHI, UTTARAKHAND
In collaboration with spearhead team of Uttarakhand Forest Department, a community mobilization programme was organized for Ganga Praharis and local communities at Mando village, Uttarkashi district on 22nd May, 2019. During the workshop, roles and responsibilities of the Ganga Praharis and stakeholders at various levels were discussed. With respect to alternative livelihood options for the local people of Uttarkashi, interaction with the locals and Ganga Praharis was carried out for finding ways of implementing the livelihood training programme for the womenfolk. The local women were made aware of the government schemes and agencies that are working on skill development for youth and women. Locals were also sensitized about the importance of biodiversity conservation in Ganga River. The programme was attended by 13 Forest officials from Uttarkashi district; 7 Ganga Praharis; 25 Local communities and two staff from Nehru Yuwa Kendra, Uttarkashi.

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH
An awareness rally was conducted at the village Chhitupur Kashividhya Peeth, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. A total of 10 Ganga Praharis and 55 local people participated in the rally.

KAHALGAON, BIHAR
Cleaning campaign and wall painting was organised at the Ganga Ghats in Kahalgaon, which was attended by 15 Ganga Praharis, and several local people. Cleanliness drive of the ghat was done by the locals in the morning, which was followed by a brief discussion about the NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity and Ganga Conservation”. Dr. Rajeev Chauhan talked about the importance of conserving the biodiversity, with special emphasis on Gangetic biodiversity. This was followed by interaction between Mr. Akshay Bajaj and the locals where he discussed the various aspects of biodiversity conservation. This was followed by hand printing on the wall by everyone present. The session was concluded with a group photograph.

WII team comprised of Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Scientist & Training Coordinator; Ms. Suneeta Rawat, Community Officer; Dr. Rajeev Chauhan, Conservation Officer; Ms. Monika Mehralu, Assistant Training Coordinator; Mr. Akshay Bajaj, Research Fellow; Ms. Advaita Ravindran, Project Assistant, Mr. Keshav Kumar, Project assistant; Mr. Ratish Singh, Project Assistant; Ms. Camellia Biswas, Intern.

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3rd MEETING OF THE MONITORING COMMITTEE AT WII, DEHRADUN ON 18TH MAY 2019

The 3rd Meeting of the Monitoring Committee of the Project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation: A WII – NMCG Initiative, sponsored by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) under its Namami Gange programme was held at the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehra Dun on 18th May 2019, under the chairmanship of Shri Rajiv Ranjan Mishra, Director General, NMCG. Shri Rajiv Kishore, Executive Director (Administration), NMCG, Shri G. Asok Kumar, Mission Director, National Water Mission & Executive Director (Projects), NMCG, Shri Arun Singh Rawat, Director, Forest Research Institute of India, Dr. Arun Kumar, Director, Dolphin Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Dehra Dun, Dr. Sandeep Behera, Biodiversity Consultant, NMCG, Dr. V.B. Mathur, Director, WII attended the meeting. The meeting was also attended by Shri Sunil Kumar, Assistant EE, NMCG” representatives from SPMG Uttarakhand; faculty co-ordinators and researchers working in the WII-NMCG project. 

The meeting started with the welcome of the monitoring committee members. After a round of introductions, the committee members were given a brief on the project. Presentations on the objectives, approaches and progress under the six components were given by the component coordinators. The committee members were appreciative about the project approach and the progress achieved so far. The Committee visited the GACMC facilities, especially ecotoxicology and conservation genetics laboratories and expressed their satisfaction. The Chairman assured full support for improving the facilities.

 
 

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“WORLD ENDANGERED SPECIES DAY CELEBRATION WITH BAL GANGA PRAHARIS AND TEACHERS’’ AT UTTARAKHAND ON 17TH MAY, 2019

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun and National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) under the project “Biodiversity and Ganga Conservation” celebrated “World Endangered Species Day” with Bal Ganga Praharis and teachers in schools of Uttarakhand on 17th May, 2019. The objective was to spread the awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species, their habitats and its ecosystem and everyday actions they can take to help protect them. WII team comprised of following persons: Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Scientist & Training Coordinator; Ms. Monika Mehralu, Assistant Training Coordinator; Mr. Keshav Kumar, Project assistant; Mr. Ratish Singh, Project Assistant.

A sensitization workshop was organized for the students and teachers at Government Inter College, Ganga Bhogpur, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. The event commenced with a presentation about the various endangered species found in Ganga River, with a special focus on the conservation of Gangetic River Dolphin and Indian Skimmer followed by a formal discussion on how to protect the species in their habitat. Subsequently, a competition of puzzle and crossword on biodiversity of Ganga theme was organised for the students. A total of 125 students, 11 teachers attended the event.

In Haridwar, the event started with a brief presentation on Biodiversity and its importance followed by a discussion about endangered species found in Ganga river, and the efforts being taken by the WII-NMCG for their conservation. Other than this, the students were also informed about the different freshwater turtle species and otters found in Ganga River. The students and teachers were then asked to give their feedbacks based on the information disseminated. The students were given mementos at the end of the event, in order to motivate and inspire them towards sustained action as the Bal Ganga Praharsi. The workshop was concluded by the distribution of awareness materials to the teachers and refreshments to all the participants. A total of 134 high school students (class 6th -10th) of Govt. Girls High School Vajirawadi, Khadkhadi, Haridwar, and 6 teachers attended the programme.

   
   
   

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“WORLD MIGRATORY BIRD DAY” CELEBRATION ACROSS GANGA STATES ON 11th MAY, 2019

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) under the NMCG-WII’s “Biodiversity and Ganga Conservation” project celebrated “World Migratory Bird Day” on 11th May 2019 in different schools and colleges across the Ganga states. The theme of this year was ‘Protect Birds: Be the solution to Plastic Pollution’. The objective of the celebration was to create awareness among youth and Bal Ganga Praharis towards Ganga’s biodiversity, focusing on migratory birds of Ganga basin and sensitization towards effects of plastic pollution on the biodiversity of the Ganga River, with special reference to different species of migratory birds, their characteristics, threats and the need for the conservation and their habitat.

KUONWALA, UTTARAKHAND
In Dehradun, an awareness programme was organised for the students and teachers at Rajkiya Purva Madhyamik Vidhyalaya, Kuonwala, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. The event commenced with a brief introduction of the Wildlife Institute of India and the National Mission for Clean Ganga, along with an overview of the NMCG-WII project “Biodiversity and Ganga Conservation”. This was followed by the presentation about the various migratory birds that visit India throughout the year, with a special focus on the birds that migrate to the Ganga River and a formal discussion on the theme for the World Migratory Birds Day, 2019 – Protect Birds: Be the Solution to Plastic Pollution. A competition of word scramble on Ganga Aqualife theme was organised for the students where a total of 32 students and 2 teachers attended the event.

VARANASI, UTTAR PRADESH
A sensitization workshop for students was organized at the Shri Subhash Government Inter College Chaubepur, Block - Cholapur Varanasi. A total of 71 Students and 3 Ganga Praharis participated in this program.
FARRUKABAAD, UTTAR PRADESH
A painting competition was organised at Prathmik Vidhyalaya, Sota Bahadurpur, Farrukabaad, Uttar Pradesh where a total of 33 students, 9 teachers and 4 Ganga Praharis participated at the event.

NARORA, UTTAR PRADESH
An awareness programme was conducted for 50 school children, 3 teachers and 2 staff at Primary School Children, Nibari Khader Village, Dibai block, Narora, Uttar Pradesh. 

NAUGACHIA, BIHAR
An event was organised for the students of 8th standard of the Middle School Simra, Naugachia, Bihar, on the occasion of World Migratory Bird Day. The event commenced with a brief presentation on the birds that migrate to the Ganges, found in and around the Bhagalpur district. A competition of word scramble on Ganga biodiversity theme was organised for the students, after which an informal talk with the students was held regarding the growing menace of plastic pollution, and its impacts on all aspects of biodiversity, along with the need to curb it. Local Ganga Prahari Gyan Chandra Gyani also held a discussion with the students about their roles in the conservation of biodiversity at a local scale, and motivated the students. This was followed by certificate and prize distribution ceremony, and the event was wrapped up with a group photograph

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EARTH WEEK CELEBRATION ACROSS GANGA STATES ON 22ND – 28TH APRIL 2019

Earth Week was celebrated from 22nd to 28th April, 2019 across five Ganga States. A series of special events and activities were carried out for Bal Ganga Praharis and teachers at different schools and Ghats. This year the theme of the Earth day (22nd April) was ‘Protect Our Species’. The objective of celebrating this week was to promote Ganga’s biodiversity conservation and create environmental awareness on different ecological issues like contamination of the river, solid waste, protection and conservation of the endangered and rare species.

The awareness programmes were held from 22nd to 28th April, 2019 at 30 sites; Dehradun, Uttarkashi, Rishikesh, Haridwar (Uttarakhand); Dhaka, Rampur, Molnapur, Sujabaad, Domri in Varanasi, Prayagraj, Kannauj, Farrukabaad, Narora (Uttar Pradesh); Nahkar, Naugachia,Bhagalpur (Bihar); Sahibganj (Jharkhand) respectively. A total of 2065 students, 117 teachers and 127 Ganga Praharis participated in the event across the Ganga States. In Uttarakhand, the programme was attended by 444 students, 12 teachers and 4 Ganga Praharis; in Uttar Pradehs 651 students, 76 teachers and 114 Ganga Praharis participated in the events, while in Bihar and Jharkhand 530 students, 29 teachers and 7 Ganga Praharis from Bihar; and 440 students, and 2 Ganga Praharis participated in the events, respectively.

The event was conducted by WII team comprising of Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Ms. Suneeta Rawat, Dr. Heena Khan, Ms. Monika Mehralu, Ms. Amanat Gill, Ms. Advaita Ravindran, Mr. Rahil Khan, Mr. Akshay Bajaj, Mr. Keshav Kumar, Mr. Ratish Singh, Ms. Keara Bakshi. These events also saw presence of Ganga Praharis, such as Mr. Pawan Katiyar (Farrukkabaad), Mr. Manoj Nishad (Haridwar), Ms. Radhika (Uttarkashi), Ms. Rama Tiwari (Kannauj), Mr. Deepak Kumar (Bhagalpur), Mr. Gyan Chand Gyani (Bhagalpur).

 

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INSTALLATION OF INAUGURAL PLAQUE AT GANGA DARPAN AND GANGA TARINI, ON 7TH MARCH 2019

The Interpretation Centre set up by the Wildlife Institute of India under the Namami Gange Project at Sarnath and “Ganga Tarini”, floating exhibition on a Bajra were inaugurated during a function at New Delhi on 27 February 2019 by the Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Arun Jaitley, Shri Nitin Gadkari and Shri Dharmendra Pradhan. The inaugural plaque were placed on 7th March 2019 in the presence of Shri Pawan Kumar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and Head of Forest Force, Uttar Pradesh, Dr. V.B. Mathur, Director, Wildlife Institute of India and Dr. Bitapi C Sinha, Component Co-ordinator, Wildlife Institute of India at the Interpretation Centre building and the Bajra. Also present on the occasion were Shri R.K. Pandey, CCF, Varanasi, and the project team.

 

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“CONSERVATION AWARENESS PROGRAMME FOR BAL GANGA PRAHARIS’’ AT DIVYAKUMBH, PRAYAGRAJ, UTTAR PRADESH ON 27TH FEBRUARY, 2019

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun and National Mission for Clean Ganga under the project “Biodiversity and Ganga Conservation” organized a “Conservation awareness programme” for Bal Ganga Praharis at Namami Gange stall, Kumbh, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh on 27th February, 2019. A total of 178 middle school and high school students (class 8th, 9th and 11th), 6 teachers and 16 Ganga Praharis attended the programme. The objective was to spread the awareness among the school children about the significance of biodiversity conservation in Ganga River. The guests included a panel of experts, Prof. Brijgopal, President, National Institute of Ecology, Dr. Sitaram Taigore, Environmental Expert, SPMG, and Dr. Rajeev Chauhan, Conservation Officer, WII, who were welcomed by Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Training Coordinator and Project Scientist. Dr. Angom provided an overview of Ganga and its biodiversity, and the efforts being taken by the Wildlife Institute of India for its conservation. Prof. Brijgopal addressed the gathering and talked about the need for appropriate measures for groundwater recharge to rejuvenate the Ganga River. Dr. Tagore discussed the importance for central and state coordination for the smooth functioning of the Namami Gange project, while Dr. Rajeev Chauhan highlighted the importance of biodiversity conservation for Ganga River. The students and teachers were then asked to give their feedbacks based on the information disseminated. This was followed by a visit to the exhibitions of the various institutions working under the NMCG banner. The students were given mementos and publications at the end of the event, in order to motivate and inspire the students towards sustained action as the Bal Ganga Prahari. WII team comprised of Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Rajeev Chauhan, Ms. Advaita Ravindran, Mr. Rahil Khan, Mr. Keshav Kumar and Mr. Ratish Singh.

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RELEASE OF PUBLICATIONS AND INAUGURATION OF THE “PRAVASI GANGA PRAHARI” PROGRAMME AND ITS WEBSITE, INTERPRETATION CENTRES “GANGA TARINI”, “GANGA DARPAN” ON 27TH FEBRUARY 2019

An event “Clean Ganga Movement” was organized by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) on 27th February 2019, at Dr. D.S. Kothari Auditorium, DRDO Bhawan. Hon’ble Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affair, Government of India, Shri Arun Jailtely, was the Chief Guest of the event. The event was presided by Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Road Transport Highways & Shipping, Government of India. The dignitaries on the dais included Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon’ble Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Hon’ble Minster of State Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation and Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India, Dr. Satya Pal Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation and Human Resources Development, Government of India, Smt. Hema Malini, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Smt. M.C. Mary Kom, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Shri U.P. Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Trichur Brothers – Shri Srikrishna Mohan and Shri Ramkumar Mohan, Shri Prasoon Joshi, Chairperson, Central Board for Film Certification, Shri Rajeev Ranjan Mishra, Director General, National Mission for Clean Ganga.

The “Pravasi Ganga Prahari” programme and its website, the floating interpretation centre at Varanasi “Ganga Tarini” and interpretation centre at Sarnath “Ganga Darpan” were inaugurated by Shri Arun Jaitley. Pravasi Ganga Prahari programme aims to actively engage non-resident Indians, foreigners and global citizens as “Pravasi Ganga Praharis” through activities that would assist NMCG’s efforts in Ganga conservation. “Ganga Darpan” an interpretation centre has been setup in the premises of Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, Sarnath, while “Ganga Tarini” is a floating exhibition in Varanasi. These centres showcase the Ganga River as an integral part of our lives since ancient times. These interpretation centres will sensitize people about the role of aquatic biodiversity in keeping the Ganga River clean and the threats faced by the Ganga River and its biodiversity. These centres will serve as knowledge and activity centres.

 

Afterwards the publications “Biodiversity Profile of Ganga River”, “Conservation Reference Guide Rescue and Rehabilitation of Freshwater Turtles and Crocodilians”, “Pravasi Ganga Prahari brochure”, were released by the dignitaries on the dais. The book “Biodiversity Profile of Ganga River” provides information on the distribution and abundance of select aquatic species of Ganga River based on intensive sampling of 32 sites, from Harshil in Uttarakhand to Ganga Sagar in West Bengal. While the conservation guide presents concise and practical information on the protocols and processes for the scientific and ethical handling of freshwater turtles and crocodilians in distress. This guide will be helpful in following the appropriate procedure and addressing emergent situations scientifically.

   

These interpretation centres and publications are significant output of the project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation” funded by the National Mission for Clean Ganga. During this event the dignitaries appealed for clean Ganga through actions and also by monetary contributions to the Clean Ganga Fund.

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CONSULTATION WORKSHOP ON “ROLE OF VARIOUS STAKEHOLDERS IN GANGA AQUALIFE CONSERVATION” AT SERAMPORE COLLEGE, WEST BENGAL ON 8TH FEBRUARY, 2019

A consultation workshop on “Role of various stakeholders in Ganga Aqualife Conservation” was organized in CLRC Hall, Serampore College, West Bengal on 8th February, 2019. The aim was to mobilize all stakeholders towards biodiversity conservation of Ganga River and provide a platform for interaction and work cohesively for cleanliness and conservation of biodiversity in West Bengal. A total of 115 participants from six NGOs (Simultala Conservationists, Nature Mates Nature Club, Green Plateau, Bakuli Aid Foundation, Wish Foundation, Jharkhali Sabuj Bahini), Hooghly-Chinsura Municipality, West Bengal Forest Department personnel, Baidyabati, Serampore, teachers & students of Vidyasagar University, Rammohan College, Lalbaba College and Serampore College participated in this programme. Representatives from NGOs showcased their activities in the interactive session. Resource persons from WII Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Dr. Shivani Barthwal, Mrs. Hemlata Khanduri, Dr. Deepika Dogra, Ms. Monika Mehralu, Ms. Michelle Irengbam, Ms. Suchismita Das and WII_NMCG trained professors and students of Serampore College spoke on various aspects of Conservation of Biodiversity of Ganga River and related issues.

 
 

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MEETING WITH SPIRITUAL LEADER ISKCON, MAYAPUR, WEST BENGAL ON “INTEGRATING THE SPIRITUAL VALUE IN GANGA BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION” ON 7TH FEBRUARY, 2019

A meeting with the spiritual and religious leader of ISKCON temple at Mayapur, West Bengal was held on 7th February, 2019. The meeting aimed at involving spiritual leaders in maintenance of wholesomeness and integrity of the Ganga River. The meeting was conducted with Spiritual leader Sri Jagadartiha Das, Sri Sunder Govindas, Shri Santa Gauranga Das and project team members comprised of Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Mrs. Hemlata Khanduri, Dr. Deepika Dogra, Ms. Monika Mehralu and Ms. Michelle Irengbam. The WII team discussed various aspects of conservation of biodiversity of Ganga River and related issues with the spiritual leaders.

   

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COMMUNITY MOBILIZATION IN COLLABORATION WITH SPEARHEAD TEAM OF WEST BENGAL FOREST DEPARTMENT AND GANGA PRAHARIS AT NAYACHAR, NADIA, WEST BENGAL ON 6TH FEBRUARY, 2019

Community interaction, assisted by the spearhead team of West Bengal Forest Department and Ganga Praharis was organized at Nayachar, Nadia district, West Bengal on 6th February, 2019. During the interaction role and active involvement of the Ganga Praharis and stakeholders at various levels was discussed. With respect to alternate livelihood options for the local people of Nayachar, a need assessment was carried out for implementing the livelihood training programme for the women folk at Nayachar in future. The local women were made aware about the government schemes and agencies that are working on skill development for youth and women. The programme was attended by 38 participants; include 29 local people and 9 forest officials including Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), and 8 frontline staff.  Resource persons from WII comprised of Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Mrs. Hemlata Khanduri, Dr. Deepika Dogra, Ms. Monika Mehralu, Ms. Michelle Irengbam and Ms. Suchismita Das.

   

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CONSULTATION WORKSHOP FOR MEDIA PERSONNEL ON “ROLE OF MEDIA IN BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION OF THE GANGA RIVER” ON 28 TH JANUARY, 2019 AT NARORA, BULANDSHAHR, UP

The WII-NMCG project “Biodiversity Conservation and Ganga Rejuvenation” organized a “Consultative workshop for the Media personnel’s on “Role of media in biodiversity conservation of the Ganga River” on 28th January, 2019 at Uday Prabhat Guest House, Narora, Bulandshahr, UP. The objective of the workshop was to highlight the important role played by Media personnel in generating public awareness across the masses about biodiversity conservation and to educate and spread the activities carried out under the WII-NMCG project. A total of 14 media personnel, two professors and 3 Ganga Praharis attended the workshop. The WII team included Dr. Sangeeta Angom, Mrs. Hemlata Khanduri, Ms. Monika Mehralu, Ms. Mansi Bijalwan. Dr. Shailendra Kumar Singh, Professor of DPBS (PG) College, Anupshahr, Bulandshahr, UP, who had earlier been trained at the Wildlife Institute of India, under the WII-NMCG project also participated in the consultation workshop as a resource person.