A training programme on Hoolock gibbon conservation strategy commenced at the Gibbon Conservation Centre in Jorhat for 29 forest frontline staff.
The training is being organised by the biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak in collaboration with the Assam Forest Department’s Jorhat Forest Division, and supported by The Habitat Trusts, IUCN SSC Primate Specialists Group, and IUCN Primate Section of Small Apes.
The training programme which will conclude on April 2 is being held in order to conduct research, training, and conservation activities on Hoolock gibbons in Assam.
“The species of Hoolock gibbon, the Western Hoolock gibbon (Hoolock hoolock) is distributed in northeast India. Their distribution in India is limited to the seven states of northeast India on the southern bank of the Dibang –Brahmaputra river system.” Aaranyak’s senior scientist and primatologist, Dr Dilip Chetry said.
“Unfortunately habitat fragmentation and hunting are the major threats to gibbons in India. Added to this situation is the lack of basic information and poor conservation awareness about the species in different sections of the people including the frontline staff of the Assam Forest Department, which is yet another major hindrance in the conservation of the species,” Dr Chetry said.
A wide range of related topic areas are being covered including, Biodiversity in Northeast India and conservation, Primates Conservation in Northeast India with special reference to Hoolock gibbon, Gibbon Census or Population estimation, Gibbon Data collection, maintaining & reporting, Techniques of Floristic study, Gibbon habitat characteristic and Restoration, Population and Habitat Monitoring, Gibbon rescue and rehabilitation, Global Positioning System & use in field, and Legal Orientation (Wildlife Laws and its application).
This course will provide participants with a basic understanding of the basic principles of primatology, as well as hands-on experience with the field research methods and techniques. The course consists of daily lectures and field exercises.
Meanwhile, Aaranyak also conducted the third annual Nature Camp at Orang National Park and Tiger Reserve (ONP & TR) in Assam recently.
Thirty-two high school students and six teachers from six schools were part of the camp. They were has acquainted on the importance of unrelenting conservation of nature. It also facilitates the participating students to interact and learn from experts working in the field of nature/ biodiversity conservation and get motivated to be future stewards to work for the betterment of Orang Tiger Reserve.
Reputed conservation scientist and a global expert on rhino conservation, Dr. Bibhab Talukdar who is also the CEO and the Secretary General of Aaranyak attended the nature camp to interact and motivate the students.
