Guwahati: Dr Dilip Chetry, a renowned conservation biologist based in Assam and a prominent primatologist with Aaranyak, participated as a co-speaker at the 2nd Conference of the Association of Indian Primatologists (AIP) held at the University of Mysore from February 9-11. Professor Mewa Singh, a distinguished Indian primatologist, also joined Dr. Chetry in the plenary session.
The conference, sponsored by Assam-based research-driven conservation organisation Aaranyak, Primate Conservation Inc., University of Mysore, and IUCN Primate Section on Small Apes, focused on various aspects of primate studies, including behavior and interactions between humans and primates, conservation and outreach activities, and the ecology and evolution of primates.
During a special session dedicated to the memory of Prof Surendra Mal Mohnot, the conference highlighted Mohnot’s significant contributions to primate conservation in Northeast India. Dr. Chetry, heading Aaranyak’s primate conservation initiatives, underscored Prof Mohnot’s pivotal role in establishing the Gibbon Conservation Centre at Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, Assam. The centre became a hub for various training, education, and research programs focusing on Hoolock gibbons and primates in general.
Dr Chetry also emphasised Aaranyak’s ongoing efforts to conserve primates in Northeast India, particularly the Hoolock gibbon. He outlined the organisation’s diverse training programs aimed at capacity building for forest officers/staff, with a focus on the Hoolock gibbon as a flagship species for biodiversity conservation.
Aaranyak researcher Rumana Maheen presented her findings during a session titled “An Integrative Approach to the Study of Macaque Presence and Distribution in Tezu, Lohit District of Arunachal Pradesh, India.” Maheen highlighted the application of molecular sampling and camera trapping to effectively map the presence and distribution of macaques in the complex habitat of Arunachal Pradesh.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
The Association of Indian Primatologists (AIP) serves as a community of Indian students, researchers, conservationists, and enthusiasts dedicated to promoting Indian primates, primatology, and conservation initiatives. The conference aimed to enhance cooperation among individuals and agencies working towards the common goal of primate welfare in India.
Also Read: How The Goat Trust is building rural women entrepreneurs for life