AKSIPS-41 Smart School hosts event titled "Saving Gharials - Protecting India's Living Heritage"

AKSIPS-41 Smart School, Chandigarh,  hosted an inspiring event titled "Saving Gharials - Protecting India's Living Heritage" to raise awareness about the conservation of gharials and the protection of India's river ecosystems. The initiative aimed to instil in students a sense of responsibility towards wildlife conservation and to highlight the vital role individuals play in safeguarding endangered species. A poster-making competition held as part of the event encouraged students to express their creativity and environmental awareness. The winners were announced as 1st Prize - Pravanya Sangwan (8A) and Jaipriya (8C); 2nd Prize - Kritika (9A); 3rd Prize - Avantika Rawat (9A); and consolation prize - Dyannat Kaur (7A). The event was graced by Gitanjali Kanwar, Senior Coordinator - Rivers, Wetlands and Water Policy, WWF-India, who attended as the chief guest. She emphasised the urgent need to conserve riverine habitats and called for community participation in protecting species such as the gharial - a crucial indicator of river health. Students were further enlightened by two engaging guest speakers - Harpal Singh, Range Forest Officer at MC Zoological Park, Chhatbir, and Vir Singh, Founder of the Virvanam Foundation and a passionate high school environmentalist. Singh (RFO) gave a brief virtual tour of Chhatbir Zoo, illustrating how zoos contribute to species preservation. An interactive question-and-answer session followed, during which students eagerly engaged with the experts to expand their understanding of environmental issues and conservation strategies. The event concluded with a strong message of collective action, reaffirming the school community's commitment to preserving India's natural heritage and promoting a sustainable coexistence with wildlife.