SHERGAON : International Clouded Leopard Day was observed at the Garung Thuk Community Library in Shergaon on Tuesday with an awareness programme aimed at introducing students to the ecology, conservation and ecological significance of the clouded leopard.
The programme was jointly organised by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and Garung Thuk (GT) under the theme, “To spread awareness about the species ecology and its significance in the ecosystem.”
Around 45 middle and secondary school students, community representatives and conservation practitioners participated in the event.
The programme began with a welcome address by Garung Thuk Deputy Chairman D K Thungon, who also delivered the keynote address. Shergaon Village Council Secretary P K Thungon inaugurated the programme as the chief guest, while Shergaon Zilla Parishad Member C K Thungon attended as the guest of honour. WTI Field Officer Suranjita Roy outlined the objectives of the workshop.
Participants first underwent a pre-assessment to evaluate their existing knowledge of the clouded leopard and wildlife conservation.
The technical session was conducted by West Kameng Honorary Wildlife Warden Dr Lobsang Tashi, who familiarised students with the clouded leopard’s ecology, behaviour, habitat, identification and ecological importance. He also highlighted the crucial role of local communities in protecting forests and conserving wildlife.
Emphasising the importance of indigenous knowledge, community representative N D Khrimey shared local folktales associated with small wild cats, while Ledo Thungon spoke about community-led efforts to conserve Shergaon’s forests and wildlife. He encouraged students to become responsible custodians of the region’s rich natural heritage.
During another session, Suranjita Roy demonstrated how camera traps are used to monitor clouded leopards and other wildlife, highlighting ongoing conservation initiatives and the importance of community participation in wildlife monitoring.
Following a post-assessment, students participated in an art and craft activity, creating sculptures and artwork inspired by the clouded leopard and other wild animals to reinforce the day’s conservation messages.
The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to participants and a vote of thanks by the organisers.
The event underscored the importance of conserving the clouded leopard while encouraging students and local communities to play an active role in protecting the region’s forests and wildlife.
