Sri Vijaya Puram, October 6: Students from schools and Andaman College were given field-based exposure to the islands’ biodiversity and conservation efforts through birding, trekking and awareness activities organised as part of the 72nd Wildlife Week celebrations, 2026.
The South Andaman Forest Division conducted a Birding and Trekking Programme at Mount Manipur National Park, bringing together students and teachers from various schools of South Andaman. Adhyaksh, Zilla Parishad South Andaman, P. Ummer, attended the programme as chief guest.
During the programme, the Divisional Forest Officer, South Andaman, explained the significance of Wildlife Week and the need to conserve wildlife, forests and natural habitats. The students explored the biodiversity of Mount Manipur during the trek and observed around 20 species of birds.
The field exercise also introduced the participants to different forest types, vegetation and the ecological significance of the area. The exposure enabled students to learn about biodiversity and wildlife conservation through direct observation while strengthening their awareness of the islands’ natural heritage.
Separately, the Biological Park, Chidiyatapu, conducted an awareness programme on the endemic flora and fauna of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for students of Andaman College (ANCOL).
The Deputy Director, Biological Park, sensitised the students to the distinctive endemic species found across the islands and explained the ecological significance of the archipelago, along with the need to conserve its fragile ecosystems and biological heritage.
The students subsequently visited the Biological Park, where they observed wildlife and gained first-hand knowledge of the institution’s conservation, rescue, rehabilitation and awareness initiatives.
The programme also included a Treasure Hunt inside the Biological Park to provide an interactive component to the learning exercise. Students participated in the activity, with the winners later felicitated with prizes.
The two programmes formed part of the 72nd Wildlife Week celebrations and combined classroom-linked awareness with direct exposure to forests, wildlife and conservation activities.
