Jamnagar (Gujarat): Wildlife Week celebrated at Khijadiya Sanctuary turned into a meaningful event with a series of activities aimed at raising awareness about wildlife conservation, protecting wetlands, and inspiring the younger generation to respect nature. From bird watching to school awareness rallies and a large-scale beach cleanliness drive, the celebration highlighted the importance of safeguarding our natural heritage.
Wetland Walk and Bird Watching Program
At the famous Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary in Jamnagar, members of Vantara and Reliance Township took part in a wetland walk and bird watching program. The event was designed to help participants understand the ecological importance of wetlands and the diverse bird species that thrive there.
Officials present at the program spoke about the urgent need to protect forests, wetlands, and wildlife. They explained that wildlife conservation is not only essential for maintaining ecological balance but also for ensuring a sustainable future. The program turned into an educational experience where participants observed migratory and resident birds in their natural habitat.
The message was clear: saving wetlands means saving lives, as these ecosystems are home to countless species and also act as natural protectors against floods and climate change.
Wildlife Awareness Program for School Children
As part of Wildlife Week, the Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary Range organized a special awareness event at Shishu Mandir School in Vibhapar village. The aim was to teach children about the value of wildlife and the importance of protecting endangered species.
During the session, students learned that wildlife is our shared heritage and must be preserved for future generations. The program emphasized that every citizen, especially the youth, has a role to play in conservation.
Range Forest Officer Dakshaben Vaghasia led the program and inspired students to become future ambassadors of nature. To spread the message further, a wildlife awareness rally was also organized in Vibhapar village with active participation from school children. Through the rally, villagers were urged to support wildlife protection and contribute to a cleaner, greener environment.
Beach Cleanliness Drive at Balachadi Gomti Beach
Another highlight of the celebration was a beach cleanliness campaign organized at Balachadi Gomti Beach. This initiative brought together a wide range of participants including the staff of Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary, officers of Jodia Marine National Park Range, students and teachers of Sainik School Balachadi, as well as local leaders like the Jodia Taluka President, village Sarpanch, and Circle Officer.
Armed with gloves, bags, and enthusiasm, the volunteers cleaned the beach and collected large amounts of waste. The campaign was not just about cleaning the beach, but also about spreading awareness against plastic pollution and protecting the marine ecosystem. Officials highlighted that beaches are critical nesting and feeding grounds for many species, and keeping them clean is a shared responsibility.
Also read: Exploring Khijadia Bird Sanctuary – A Paradise for Birdwatchers in Gujarat
A Week of Action and Awareness
The Wildlife Week celebration, held from October 2 to October 9, was not limited to symbolic gestures but focused on action-oriented programs. From wetlands to schools, from bird sanctuaries to beaches, every event carried the message of conservation.
Officials repeatedly stressed the urgent need for community participation in wildlife protection. They reminded people that every individual action, whether planting trees, avoiding plastic, or protecting birds, contributes to the bigger goal of saving the planet.
Wildlife Week is celebrated across India every year to create awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. The events at Khijadiya Sanctuary reflected the same spirit by involving local communities, educational institutions, and conservation groups.
Also read: Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: How to reach,information,opening time in Goa
Protecting the Legacy of Khijadiya Sanctuary
Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary, recognized as a Ramsar Wetland Site, is one of the most important bird habitats in Gujarat. Home to more than 300 species of migratory and resident birds, including flamingos, pelicans, herons, and storks, the sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers and a lifeline for biodiversity.
The Wildlife Week events further underlined the responsibility of protecting such precious ecosystems. As officials noted, if these habitats are conserved well, they will continue to attract thousands of birds every year, providing ecological as well as eco-tourism benefits to the region.
Also read: Purna Wildlife Sanctuary: Nature’s Untouched Paradise in the Western Ghats
Conclusion
The Wildlife Week celebrated at Khijadiya Sanctuary was not just a week-long event but a reminder of our duty towards the environment. Through bird watching, children’s awareness programs, rallies, and a beach cleanliness drive, the celebrations carried a strong message: wildlife is our heritage, and its protection is our responsibility.
By connecting local communities and inspiring the younger generation, the event showcased that small steps can lead to a big change. The success of the celebrations at Jamnagar sets an example of how conservation can be made a people’s movement when awareness, education, and action come together.
