Ranchi: The Government of Jharkhand and the Forest Department organized a special seminar on the conservation of sloth bears, tigers, and dolphins at the National University of Study and Research in Law (NUSRL) in Ranchi, as part of Wildlife Conservation Week. Students from both NUSRL and Birsa Agricultural University participated in the event.
The seminar featured expert insights from Dr. Harendra Singh on sloth bear conservation, retired Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Pradeep Kumar on tiger conservation, and Gautam on dolphin conservation. Additionally, Dr. Shobhana Ray joined via webinar to discuss the various threats faced by dolphin populations.
Besides others, Basant Oraon from Birsa Agricultural University, DFO Avnish Kumar Chaudhary, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Sanjay Srivastava, and Chief Conservator of Forests S.R. Natesha.
Retired PCCF Pradeep Kumar shared his experiences, noting, “Tigers are incredibly resilient animals capable of withstanding temperatures ranging from minus 30 to 40 degrees Celsius.” He provided insights into the status of tigers in Betla National Park and Palamu Tiger Reserve, emphasizing efforts to realign railway lines to protect tiger habitats.
Regarding dolphin conservation, Gautam discussed methods for counting dolphin populations and the training provided to Forest Department staff in Sahibganj. Dr. Shobhana highlighted threats to dolphins, including fishing nets and pollution.
At the conclusion of the seminar, all participants were presented with mementos. DFO Avnish Kumar Chaudhary expressed gratitude to NUSRL’s Vice Chancellor, Dr. Professor Ashok R. Patil, acknowledging his support and swift preparations as key to the event’s success.