Awareness program on the occasion of Wildlife Day | March 2026

On the advice of Mr R. Kiruba Shankar, Field Director of the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, a forest awareness programme was conducted on 25 March 2026 at the Sigur Forest Range under the leadership of Masinagudi Forest Officer Mr Vidyaragavan.

Students from the Anaikatti Tribal Residential School (Classes 1 to 5) participated in the programme and gained scientific knowledge about wildlife.

Mr. Suresh Babu, Forest Ranger of Sigur, explained the importance of wildlife and nature. He interacted with the students and highlighted the benefits of forests, animals, trees, and the natural environment.

Subsequently, Arulagam organisation coordinators Ms Sundari (Biologist) and Ms Revathi (Sociologist) participated and provided information on rare species, the unique features of forests, and birds. They engaged the students through an interactive question-and-answer session, with a special focus on vultures. They explained that vultures are not predators but “the cleansers of nature”, as they feed on carcasses. They also described their resting habits, feeding behaviour, and how they clean their bodies and dry themselves in the sun to eliminate germs.

 

Stickers with the message “I am a friend of Vulture” were distributed to all the students, who received them with great enthusiasm.

Professor Dr Ramakrishnan, Head of the Department of Wildlife at the Arts and Science College, Udhagamandalam, explained the importance of elephants using visual aids. He emphasised that elephants are key species in forest ecosystems, as they help in seed dispersal and support the livelihoods of many other species.

Later, during a field visit to Jagalikadavu, the students were delighted to observe a mother elephant, approximately 40 years old, along with her calf, as they came to drink water.

Lastly, Mr Masanan, Forester, delivered the vote of thanks.