Wildlife Week concludes with message of wildlife conservation

Kathmandu / April 19: The 21st Wildlife Week bearing the slogan ‘The Future of Wildlife is in Our Hand’ concluded today.

At the closing ceremony, Minister for Forest and Soil Conservation, Agni Prasad Sapkota, said the week-long programme held to mark the annual event could contribute significantly in conservation of the wildlife.

Minister Sapkota further said that the role of humans – being the most conscious of the beings – could be important in enhancing the beauty of the Earth and make it a common property for all. He stressed the need for solidarity among all to conserve the biodiversity.

The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) launched various programmes to celebrate the Week in all national parks and conservation areas across the country with an aim to raise awareness on wildlife conservation.

Under the week-long programme, the DNPWC imparted messages on conservation through various media outlets on April 13 and organized art competition on forest the next day. On April 16, it organized a birth observation and awareness programme at the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. On April 18, a poem competition was held at the national zoo.

DNPWC Acting Director General, Dr Maheshwar Dhakal, said the conservation of the biodiversity was possible only through a joint effort.

During the function, students with outstanding performances in poem and art competitions were feted and conferred certificates. Appreciation letters were also conferred on various community forests and individuals making noteworthy contribution towards wildlife conservation.

In the 21st Wildlife Week celebrations, 14 national parks, three wildlife reserves, six conservation areas and one hunting reserve took part hosting various programmes favourable for them, according to the Department.

The event held from April 13 to 19 was organized by DNPWC in collaboration with other partners including Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN). The annual celebration has continued since 2053 BS (1996) starting in the first week of Nepali New Year. RSS