Journalism of Courage
Members of Tiger Action Force believe that instead of working separately,NGOs should join hands to conserve local bio-diversity
The place was packed with interesting pictures and statistics about the varied bio-diversity that belongs to the country. And along with it were pointers as to how,under the garb of development and modernisation,this very same bio-diversity is fast getting depleted. Slide shows,documentary screenings,lectures,and even stores selling eco-friendly merchandise were other highlights. All this for a common cause – to promote awareness about the cultural bio-diversity of the country.
Partnering along with TAF were two other NGOs – Sprouts and JIVIDHA. Speaking about their participation,Anand Pendharkar of Sprouts says,We mostly aim at aiding the rehabilitation of tribals from places in Rajasthan. For instance,we are selling handicrafts here which are made by members of the Moghaya tribe,who are basically a hunting tribe. As we help them find an alternate livelihood,they in turn give up on hunting as a profession,thereby preserving the environment.
The exhibition also had two lectures on ‘India’s Biodiversity’ by Rajiv Pandit (founder president of JIVIDHA) on July 10 and ‘Wildlife Conservation’ by Santosh Shintre on July 11. Pandit says,India is actually a bio-diversity super power. This can be gauged from the fact that the country has close to eight per cent of the world’s total flora and fauna. So it is of extreme importance to bring about an awareness regarding the same,especially amongst youngsters so that they don’t end up vandalising it.
The two-day event also had the documentary,Truth About Tigers,being screened by members of TAF. In the near future,we aim to hold more such seminars in schools and colleges to help youngsters understand the various problems plaguing our environment. This is in addition to developing a system through which we will be able to support forests,tribals,and forest guards in the state, says Mahajan.
