Siliguri, 03rd January: With the aim of promoting peaceful coexistence between humans and elephants, the Wildlife Trust of India has launched Gajo Utsav in West Bengal. The initiative was formally inaugurated in North Bengal with a programme held at the Rabindra Bhanu Mancha of North Bengal University.
Senior officials and representatives, including Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Bala Murugan, Wildlife Trust of India Vice President Dr Sandeep Kumar Tiwari, ADRM of Katihar Division Ajay Singh, and other dignitaries, were present at the event. Various departments of the forest department, railways and the university participated in the programme.
According to the organisers, Gajo Utsav is being conducted to strengthen coexistence between elephants and human populations living near forest areas. Along with forest conservation, the initiative aims to protect the lives of both elephants and humans.
The campaign also focuses on safeguarding the traditional movement corridors and rights of Asian elephants, underlining the need for sustainable conservation and long-term coexistence in the region.