Assam: Aaranyak Hosts Nature Camp 2026 in

JORHAT- Leading biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak successfully conducted its Nature Camp 2026 following three days of participatory learning and nature exploration from January 9 to 11 at the Gibbon Conservation Centre, located within the Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary at Mariani in Assam’s Jorhat district.

Sixteen young participants took part in the camp, which was designed to introduce them to various aspects of biodiversity and conservation through structured sessions and field-based activities.

The programme included an overview of the ecological significance of the Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, introductory sessions on biodiversity, guided forest walks focusing on habitat, flora and fauna, and field documentation exercises.

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Participants were also trained in identifying butterflies, birds and mammals, introduced to primate ecology, and familiarised with wildlife photography as a tool for conservation documentation. Additional sessions covered the basics of GIS and GPS for nature studies, along with exercises aimed at improving documentation and presentation skills.

Udayan Borthakur, Organising Secretary of Aaranyak and lead organiser of the camp, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to nurturing future conservation leaders. He noted that the camp enables young members to engage practically with scientific observation and analysis of the natural world.

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The sessions were conducted by a team of experienced resource persons, including Udayan Borthakur, Dr Dilip Chetry, Arup Kumar Das, Tikendrajit Gogoi and Ivy Farheen Hussain from Aaranyak; Protul Hazarika, retired Chief Technical Officer of the Rain Forest Research Institute, Jorhat; and Sarangapani Neog, a butterfly specialist.

Participants were actively involved in field observations, hands-on GPS exercises, use of citizen science platforms, wildlife photography and interactive discussions on conservation governance.

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Dr Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, Secretary General and Executive Director of Aaranyak, addressed the participants virtually, sharing insights into the organisation’s conservation vision and long-term goals. Aaranyak President Jimut Prasad Sarma also interacted with the participants, encouraging their interest in conservation.

The camp was coordinated by Aaranyak’s organising team comprising Udayan Borthakur, Dr Dilip Chetry, Dr Pranjal Kumar Das and Pranab Goswami.

Necessary permission to conduct the camp was granted by the Chief Wildlife Warden of Assam, while the Jorhat Forest Division and officials of the Meleng Beat Office under the Assam Forest Department extended logistical support.

Organisers said the collaboration and support from forest authorities contributed to the smooth conduct and overall success of Nature Camp 2026.