World Wildlife Week-Guest Lecture on 6th October, 2023

In celebration of World Wildlife Week, the Department of Zoology in collaboration with the ECO Task Force, Patna Women’s College, Autonomous organized a captivating Guest Lecture on 6th October, 2023, in the Carmel Hall.
The Guest Speaker was Shri S. Chandrasekar, IFS, Member Secretary, Bihar State Pollution Control Board, Patna.
The topic of his lecture was ‘From Brink of Extinction to Hopeful Future: The Inspiring Tale of Tiger Conservation’.
The distinguished speaker,
Shri Chandrasekar commenced the lecture by highlighting the significance of wildlife in various cultures and religions and its role as a source of pride in India. He eloquently expressed how wildlife, particularly the majestic tiger, is deeply woven into the tapestry of Indian heritage.
The audience was then transported into the world of tigers as the speaker introduced the concept of tiger subspecies. He shared the sobering news that three subspecies of tigers are already extinct, while many others are on the brink of endangerment. The speaker detailed the inception of the Tiger Project (now known as Project Tiger) in India, which began in 1973, and credited the dedicated efforts of conservationists, policymakers, and wildlife enthusiasts for its establishment.
One of the most riveting aspects of Shri Chandrasekar’s lecture was his account of the National Tiger Status Assessments spanning from 2006 to 2022. The statistics showcased a remarkable increase in the tiger population in India, with the number soaring from 1,411 to 3,682, signifying a significant positive shift in tiger conservation efforts.
The guest speaker discussed the various Tiger Reserves in India, their unique habitats, and the dietary preferences of these apex predators. He shared inspiring success stories from across the country, demonstrating how concerted efforts had led to the revival of tiger populations in several regions.
A spotlight was cast on the Valmiki Tiger Reserve in Bihar, where Shri Chandrasekar provided an in-depth account of the journey of tiger conservation. He revealed that Valmiki Tiger Reserve currently boasts a population of 54 tigers, emphasizing the significance of conservation in the state. The lecture delved into the practical aspects of tiger monitoring, including the collection and analysis of pug marks and scat, as well as the strategic placement of cameras along trails and water sources to capture elusive glimpses of these magnificent creatures.
The programme was attended by all the UG and PG students and teachers of the Department of Zoology, Patna Women’s College.
Throughout the lecture, students and teachers actively engaged with Shri Chandrasekar by posing questions and seeking clarification on various aspects of tiger conservation. The interactive nature of the session made it not only informative but also enriching for all participants, particularly for those pursuing studies in wildlife conservation and management.
The guest lecture proved to be an enlightening and inspiring event, shedding light on the vital importance of wildlife conservation, especially the conservation of tigers, in India. It served as a reminder that while challenges remain, concerted efforts can lead to the restoration of these magnificent creatures and their habitats. As World Wildlife Week draws to a close, the event at Patna Women’s College has left a lasting impact, fostering a deeper appreciation for the remarkable wildlife that India is blessed with and the collective responsibility to protect it for generations to come.