Shimla, October 6: The sixth day of Wildlife Week 2026 saw a storytelling, expert interaction and experience-sharing session at the Western Himalayan Temperate Arboretum, Potter’s Hill, Shimla, with speakers stressing the need for greater public participation in wildlife and biodiversity conservation.
The programme was organised by the Wildlife Wing of the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and strengthen people’s connect with nature.
Anu Nagar, IAS, Adviser (Health), Government of Himachal Pradesh, attended the event as the chief guest. In her address, she highlighted the importance of forests and wildlife for ecological and human well-being and urged people to play a more active role in their protection.
Forest officials, wildlife experts, students and experienced professionals shared their field experiences during the programme. Discussions focused on Himachal Pradesh’s rich biodiversity, protection of natural habitats and the need to maintain a balance between human activities and wildlife.
The storytelling sessions brought alive real-life experiences and interesting incidents related to wildlife and nature. Experts emphasised that conservation cannot be left to government agencies alone and requires active participation from local communities, students, youth and citizens.
The participants were also sensitised to biodiversity protection, habitat conservation and responsible behaviour towards the environment. Experts particularly encouraged young people and students to develop greater sensitivity towards nature and contribute actively to wildlife conservation.
The programme aimed to take expert knowledge and field experiences to a wider audience and strengthen the link between wildlife conservation and public participation.
Forest officials and employees, retired senior officers, forestry experts and students from various universities attended the event.
Wildlife Week 2026 is witnessing a series of awareness and public-participation programmes across Himachal Pradesh aimed at highlighting the state’s rich wildlife and biodiversity and encouraging greater community involvement in their conservation.
