Chhatbir, October 8: Wildlife Week 2026 concluded at the M.C. Zoological Park, Chhatbir, with a training workshop for wildlife field staff, award distribution and awareness activities aimed at strengthening wildlife conservation and enforcement in Punjab.
The day began with a specialised Wildlife Law Enforcement Training Workshop organised by the Department of Forests and Wildlife Preservation, Punjab, at the Wildlife Capacity Centre, Chhatbir Zoo. The session was coordinated by Saarthak Jain, Zonal Head (North India), People for Animals (PFA).
Among the key speakers were Gauri Maulekhi, Trustee, PFA and recipient of the Nari Shakti Puraskar 2018, and Advocate Saurabh Sharma, who practises wildlife, forest and environmental law before the Supreme Court, National Green Tribunal and various High Courts.
Wildlife officers from all six divisions of Punjab participated in the workshop, which focused on enforcement strategies, legal frameworks and animal welfare principles. Officials said the programme would help strengthen the capacity of field staff to enforce conservation laws and protect the state’s biodiversity.
The closing ceremony later brought together senior forest officials, wildlife personnel, NGOs, students and conservation stakeholders. The Field Director welcomed the guests and participants and outlined the activities conducted during the week.
Chief Wildlife Warden, Punjab, Saurabh Gupta, IFS, underscored the responsibility of wildlife officials in protecting the state’s natural heritage. Dharminder Sharma, IFS, PCCF HoFF, Punjab, highlighted Chhatbir Zoo’s role in wildlife conservation, education and public awareness.
The chief guest, K.K. Yadav, IAS, Administrative Secretary, Forests, Punjab, stressed the need to adopt broader environmental parameters for wildlife conservation. He highlighted the importance of monitoring air and water pollution and linking environmental health with the protection of wildlife and ecosystems.
The ceremony also featured the Apurba Deka Award, along with recognition for school students who excelled in quiz, painting and essay competitions. Wildlife officials and NGOs were also honoured for their contribution to conservation efforts.
A Zoo Keeper’s Talk on wolves was another highlight of the day, giving visitors and students an opportunity to learn about wolf ecology, behaviour and conservation challenges. Participants interacted with zoo keepers and gained a better understanding of the species and its role in the ecosystem.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Harpal Singh, PRO (Wildlife) cum Zoo Education Officer, who acknowledged the contribution of wildlife staff, NGOs, students and other participants.
The closing events underlined Punjab’s commitment to strengthening wildlife law enforcement, conservation education and sustainable ecosystem management, officials said.
