Wildlife Awareness Programme: Bird Watching, Turtle Conservation, Bengal Fox and Golden Jackal Awareness

An Awareness Programme on Bengal Fox, Golden Jackal, Wildlife, and Environment was organized by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department in collaboration with Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), Puducherry Campus, on 07 March 2026. The programme was organized with the support of Mr. Prince Kumar, IFS, District Forest Officer, Villupuram, and Mr. P. Bhuvanesh, Forest Range Officer, Tindivanam. The programme aimed to raise students' awareness of wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.

Students and faculty members of RRU actively participated in the programme. The event was guided by Dr. Bubesh, an Adjunct Faculty member at RRU, and by Mr. Murugan, Forester, and Mr. Ilayaraja, Forest Guard, who facilitated the activities and shared their expertise in wildlife and environmental conservation.

The programme began with a bird-watching session in the Kaluveli forest area, where participants observed various bird species in their natural habitat. This session helped students understand the ecological importance of wetlands and forest ecosystems in supporting biodiversity.

After the bird-watching activity, the participants visited Marakanam Beach for a turtle awareness session. During this session, forest officials explained about sea turtles, their nesting behavior, and conservation measures taken to protect them. Participants were also shown turtle eggs and the nesting (egg-laying) area, which helped them understand how turtles lay eggs on the beach and how these eggs are protected until they hatch. 

The group assembled at the Forest Department office, where a PowerPoint presentation on bird conservation and turtle awareness was delivered. During the session, the forest officials also raised awareness about the Bengal Fox and Golden Jackal, explaining their habitats, behaviours, and ecological importance in maintaining the balance of the forest ecosystem. This session helped students understand the importance of wetlands and forest ecosystems in supporting biodiversity.

At the end of the programme, students and faculty members shared their feedback, expressing their appreciation for the informative and engaging field experience. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mrs. Royal Emima, LIA at RRU, thanking the organizers, guides, faculty members, and students for their valuable participation and support.

Overall, the awareness programme was an enriching learning experience that enhanced participants’ understanding of wildlife conservation, bird diversity, and turtle protection, and encouraged them to contribute to protecting the environment and natural ecosystems.