Biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak has launched a guided birdwatching initiative aimed at encouraging environmental awareness among young people in the Kaziranga–Karbi Anglong landscape.
The programme, which began in January 2025, is designed for participants aged between 10 and 19 years from four villages — Chandrasing Rongpi, Phumen Engti, Englepothar and Sarbura Singnar. Sessions are held every Sunday from 4 pm to 5:30 pm to accommodate the schedules of local youth.
According to Aaranyak, eight sessions have been completed so far, engaging 59 participants. The walks are guided by Bhaskor Barukial and supported by Rangsina Phangcho. The focus is on introducing the basics of bird identification through shape, size and colour, along with the use of field equipment such as binoculars.
Participants are also given weekly assignments to record bird sightings on datasheets, which are then shared during the Sunday sessions. The organisation says this hands-on approach is helping build curiosity and strengthen observation skills while preparing a new generation of community-based birdwatchers.
Aaranyak stated that the initiative is part of its wider work in biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection across the Kaziranga–Karbi Anglong and Manas landscapes. The organisation also works with indigenous communities to promote sustainable livelihoods, education and awareness.
The programme is being implemented with support from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
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