The Department of Environmental Science, Integral University, Lucknow, celebrated the World Wildlife Day on 31st March 2023 in the Central Auditorium, University campus. The World Wildlife Day has been celebrated since 2013 by the United Nations to raise awareness of the world’s wild animals and plants. The theme for this year is “Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation”.
The Head of the department of Environmental Science Prof. (Dr.) Monowar Alam Khalid welcomed the eminent guest Dr. Rahmani and the bouquet was presented to him by Dr. Syed Saema. Prof. Khalid introduced Dr. R. Rahmani, an eminent Scientist and renowned Ornithologist, former Director, Bombay Natural History Society, Mumbai. He has extensively worked on Grassland and Wetland birds like Great Indian Bustard etc., and is a member of the Governing body of Wetlands International South Asia, and also a Scientific Consultant Foundation and Hem Chandra Mahindra Trust. He has served in various committees of the Ministry of Environment & Forest (MoEF).
Dr. Asad R. Rahmani, delivered an interesting lecture on the topic “New Threats to Birds: A Global Perspective”, which was patiently listened to by more than 100 students from the university and faculty members from various departments. His lecture was extremely informative and provided knowledge about innumerable species of migratory and resident Birds and the problems faced by them due to climate change, habitat loss, pollution and predators. He also talked about Bird migration and habitat condition mismatch, leading to drastic decline in bird population.
While interacting with the students, Dr. Rahmani expressed that wildlife is the most important part of the natural resources as they play an important role in balancing the environment. Wildlife and nature have been largely impacted due to human greed and exploitation. He also explained various threats to wildlife species. The eminent guest also distributed the certificates to students who participated in the Bird Walk of the campus, which was organized by Integralite Photography Club of the Department of Environmental Science and the members of University Polytechnic. The anchoring of the programme was successfully done by Dr. Rahila R. Khan and vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Amina Jafri.