A Conversation for Spreading Awareness on the theme “Human and Wildlife Coexistence” during Wildlife Week on Community Radio by the Science Club

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Marking the 71st Wildlife Week (October 2–8, 2025), the Science Club organized an engaging radio talk show titled ‘A Conversation for Spreading Awareness on the theme “Human and Wildlife Coexistence” of Wildlife Week’ on Community Radio 91.2 FM Dhwani JU.

The programme aimed to spread awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity and understanding the intricate relationship between humans and wildlife. The interactive session featured expert Om Prakash Sharma Vidyarthi, a former senior Indian Forest Officer, Retd PCCF, and Sahitya Akademy award winner for his creative writings, Member J&K Wildlife Board, and Member J&K Biodiversity Council, who shared his insight on how animals and plants are culturally and integrally associated with Indian culture and cited interesting examples from Jammu and other places in India.  Prof. Parmil Kumar, Department of Statistics, and Coordinator of Nature and Wildlife Club, University of Jammu, is a noted birder who shared valuable insights with specific species known to coexist in nature, and wildlife is paramount for human survival. The discussion on local wildlife, conservation strategies, sustainable coexistence practices, and engaging local communities in conservation efforts.

Dr Chinmoyee Maharana, Coordinator, Science Club and Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, University of Jammu. She shared the information about five initiatives taken up at national level: Project Dolphin, Project Sloth Bear, Project Gharial, a Centre of Excellence for Human–Wildlife Conflict Management at the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), Tamilnadu, and Project Tigers Outside Tiger Reserves that will address conflicts beyond protected areas. Also shared about four national action plans, including the 2nd Cycle of Population Estimation of River Dolphins and Other Cetaceans, All India Tiger Estimation Cycle–6, Action Plan for the 2nd Cycle of Snow Leopard Population Estimation, and the Progress Report on Population Estimation of Great Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican. The talk show highlighted the need for environmental education and participatory approaches for preserving the delicate balance of ecosystems.