Dibrugarh: The fifth Regional Workshop on “Media for Wildlife” was successfully organised on Saturday at Assam’s Dibrugarh University, bringing together conservationists, journalists, academicians, and wildlife experts to deliberate on critical issues related to biodiversity conservation and ethical wildlife reporting.
The one-day workshop was organised by Media for Wildlife in collaboration with the Centre for Studies in Journalism and Mass Communication, Dibrugarh University, with the aim of strengthening the role of media in wildlife conservation and environmental awareness.
Mrinal Talukdar, Convenor of Media for Wildlife, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the growing responsibility of the media in shaping public perception toward wildlife and conservation challenges.
Dr Pranjal Protim Burhagohain, Chairperson of the Centre for Studies in Journalism and Mass Communication, underlined the importance of responsible journalism in reporting wildlife-related issues.
The inaugural session was graced by Prof Jiten Hazarika, Vice-Chancellor of Dibrugarh University, who formally inaugurated the workshop and stressed sensitising young journalists to environmental concerns.
The technical sessions began with Session 1 on Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, jointly addressed by Dr Rathin Barman of Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and Kaushik Barua of Assam Elephant Foundation.
The speakers shared field experiences, challenges in rescue operations, and the role of media in accurate reporting during wildlife emergencies.
Session 2 focused on the Biodiversity of Assam and its Significance, presented by Dr Anupam Sarmah of WWF, who highlighted Assam’s unique ecological wealth and the urgent need for conservation-focused communication.
This was followed by Session 3, where Aftab Ahmed of WTI spoke on the White-winged Duck, the State Bird of Assam, emphasising conservation efforts and the threats faced by the species.
Session 4 addressed the theme of Ethical Wildlife Journalism. Pranoy Bordoloi discussed media ethics, misinformation, and the responsibilities of journalists while covering wildlife conflicts and conservation stories.
Session 5 covered the Legal Aspects of Wildlife and Nature Conservation, with Dr Bibhav Talukdar, Secretary General of Aaranyak, explaining various wildlife laws, acts, and the legal framework governing conservation in India.
The workshop concluded with a closing ceremony and certificate distribution, addressed by Somyadeep Dutta, Director of Nature’s Beckon.
The event witnessed active participation from students, researchers, and media professionals, providing a meaningful platform for dialogue on wildlife conservation and responsible journalism in the region.