Guwahati: Chandra Mohan Patowary, Minister of Environment and Forests, inaugurated the 70th Wildlife Week celebration organized by the Assam Forest Department at the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden on Wednesday.
Minister Patowary, after arriving at Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden, paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti.
The inaugural programme of the 70th Wildlife Week commenced with Hasti Puja and featured a vibrant procession that showcased a tableau highlighting Assam’s rich wildlife heritage. A street play focused on wildlife conservation captivated attendees, demonstrating the community’s commitment to preserving nature.
Chandra Mohan Patowary expressed pride in honouring the dedicated workers who care for the animals at the state zoo. He also acknowledged their essential role in wildlife preservation. “Their hard work and passion are vital for maintaining the zoo,” he stated.
During his interaction with the press at the event, the minister highlighted the significant measures implemented under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma to protect and preserve Assam’s wildlife and enhance its rich biodiversity.
In addition to the Wildlife Week festivities, the Minister participated in a cleanliness drive at the zoo. This was part of the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 campaign, which runs from September 17 to October 2, 2024. Special Chief Secretary (Forest) M.K. Yadava and senior officials from the Environment and Forest Department were present on the occasion. Zoo employees, volunteers, local youth, and members of the general public also attended the event.
A day earlier, the minister along with other dignitaries had visited the Kaziranga National Park. He had formally re-opened the park for the tourism season 2024-25. The reopening of the National Parks marks the start of the end of a new tourism session. While the closing of the parks for guests ahead of monsoons marks the end of a session.
