WWF Celebrates World Wildlife Day 2024 at Okhla Bird Sanctuary with a Focus on Digital Innovation in Conservation

 

New Delhi:   The WWF Environmental Information and Assessment Center Program (EIACP PC-RP), operating under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, marked World Wildlife Day with fervor and enthusiasm at the Okhla Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary, known for its rich biodiversity and dedication to Mission LiFE, became the stage for various activities aimed at highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation in the digital age.

World Wildlife Day, observed annually on March 3, serves as a global platform to celebrate and raise awareness about the diverse flora and fauna that grace our planet. This year’s theme, “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation,” took center stage, emphasizing the pivotal role of technology in shaping the future of wildlife preservation.

The event witnessed a convergence of generations, with the participation of school and college students alongside enthusiastic members of the public. Shri Pramod Kumar, Divisional Forest Officer of Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Shri Amit Gupta, Range Forest Officer at Okhla Bird Sanctuary, Gautam Buddha Nagar, added to the motivation of the attendees as the Guest of Honor.

The distinguished guests delivered insightful lectures on various aspects of wildlife, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities in the realm of conservation. Dr. G. Areendran, Coordinator of WWF EIACP PC-RP India, shared his expertise, further enriching the engagement with valuable knowledge.

The activities organized at the Okhla Bird Sanctuary included an eco trail, poster-making sessions, and on-the-spot hand and face painting, all centered around the theme of World Wildlife Day 2024. The approximately 150 participants actively engaged in these activities, showcasing their passion for wildlife conservation and digital innovation.

The world is currently in the midst of a digital revolution, and wildlife conservation has not been left untouched. Technological advancements have facilitated research, communication, tracking, and DNA analysis, making conservation efforts more efficient and accurate. This day served as a catalyst for discussions on how digital connectivity can be harnessed for the benefit of both people and the planet.

As the digital divide gradually narrows, with improved connectivity reaching 66 percent of the global population, events like these play a crucial role in inspiring the youth and the public to actively contribute to the cause of wildlife preservation. The celebration at Okhla Bird Sanctuary not only acknowledged the achievements in digital innovation but also laid the groundwork for a shared and sustainable future, where technology and conservation go hand in hand.