DEOMALI : Deomali hosted its first-ever Butterfly and Biodiversity Trail (BBT) on Wednesday, bringing together students, researchers, conservationists and nature enthusiasts to promote awareness of butterfly diversity and biodiversity conservation.

The programme was jointly organised by the Butterfly and Biodiversity Trail (BBT), Dehing Patkai National Park, Hinthong Foundation and the Deomali Forest Division.

More than 100 participants, including students and faculty members of WRGC College and Government Higher Secondary School, Deomali, along with biodiversity experts, Forest Department officials and invited guests, took part in the event, which featured expert talks, interactive sessions and a guided nature trail.

The trail was led by Roshan Upadhaya, popularly known as the “Butterfly Man of Arunachal Pradesh”, who introduced participants to butterfly diversity, identification, habitats and their ecological importance.

Indian ecologist, author and WildTales Foundation Director Sohail Madan also addressed the gathering and urged participants to strengthen their commitment to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection.

The programme provided students with hands-on learning opportunities by connecting classroom knowledge with practical field experience, while fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and wildlife conservation.

The Deomali event forms part of a series of Butterfly and Biodiversity Trails being organised across the Dehing Patkai National Park landscape, including Joypur, Lakhipathar and Soraipung, from July 29 to 31.

Deomali Range Forest Officer D Lowang appreciated the organisers for conducting the programme and lauded the enthusiastic participation of students and teachers.

Organisers said hosting the Butterfly and Biodiversity Trail for the first time marks an important milestone in promoting environmental awareness, biodiversity conservation and nature-based education in the region.