Patna: The annual observance of World Sparrow Day received special attention in Patna on Wednesday, as various stakeholders convened at the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, commonly known as Patna Zoo, to raise awareness about the conservation of sparrows, particularly in Bihar where the bird holds the esteemed title of state bird since 2013.
The event witnessed the participation of notable figures including Bandana Preyashi, Secretary (Environment, Forest and Climate Change); Prabhat Kumar Gupta, Principal Chief Forest Conservator-cum-Chief Wildlife Warden; Abhay Kumar, Director of Ecology and Environment; Satyajit Kumar, Director of Patna Zoo; Shashibhushan Prasad, Deputy Director of Patna Zoo; Prof. (Dr.) Mohd. Nazim, Head of the Department of Geography at Patna University, among others. Sparrow conservationist Shri Sanjay Kumar, along with representatives from various organizations, also graced the occasion.
The program commenced with the inauguration of stalls dedicated to sparrow conservation by the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, and other officials. Additionally, the launch of “One-Aangan,” a facility for baby feeding near gate number-1 at Patna Zoo, marked an important milestone in the event.
Welcoming the esteemed guests, Abhay Kumar, Director of Ecology and Environment, underscored the familial relationship humans share with sparrows and emphasized the need for their conservation. Sanjay Kumar, in his address, provided insights into the importance of sparrow conservation, detailing methods and efforts undertaken in this regard, including his own composition titled “Aao Goraiya.”
Highlighting the broader implications of wildlife conservation, Prabhat Kumar Gupta emphasized the role of sparrows in maintaining natural balance and averting potential health crises stemming from the extinction of certain species.
Secretary Bandana Preyashi, urged the public to respect the natural habitats of sparrows and advocated for providing them with essential resources like nests, food, and water. She assured full government support for sparrow conservation initiatives.
The event also featured the distribution of a book authored by Sanjay Kumar, recognizing his significant contributions to sparrow conservation in Patna. Furthermore, the release of ‘Goraiya,’ a collection of short stories and poems centered around sparrows for children, along with a ‘Goraiya-centric mobile app’ and a poster by renowned cartoonist Pawan, added to the program’s significance.
Expressing gratitude to all participants, organizers, and media personnel, Zoo director Satyajit Kumar, concluded the event with a vote of thanks.
