Information for children about the environment

Chettalli, May 3: Coorg Wildlife Society witnessed a rare attempt to take today's children, who are getting away from nature amidst mobile, TV and digital world, back to the river, forest and biodiversity. The one-day special workshop held at Valnur Cauvery stream near Kushalnagar was not just an entertainment program for the children, but also a lesson that developed a direct connection with nature.

More than 39 local children participated in this program with their parents, and the importance of the river ecosystem was introduced to the children in a simple and interesting way. From conserving the trees and soil on the river banks to the role that the fish in the river play in maintaining the ecological balance, many issues were explained to the children.

The children were told about the existential crisis facing the mahseer fish today. The issue of the declining number of these fish due to illegal fishing, river pollution and environmental damage raised concerns among the children.

A PowerPoint presentation was held on snakes. How important snakes are in nature was explained through pictures and information. The children were made aware of the difference between poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, the precautions to be taken when seeing snakes and the need for snake conservation.

Derek D'Souza, a representative of the International Game Fishing Association who participated in the program, interacted with the children and said that the role of the next generation in the conservation of rivers is important.

The program was attended by the president of the association, Kunhagad Bose Madappa, secretary Chenanda P. Ayyappa, treasurer Koravanda Prashant Ayyappa, former president Ketolira.A. Changappa and committee members Karthamada Naveen Bopaiah, Pattamada Hem Madappa, Chenanda Devaiah, Adeep Kodanda, Aichettir Shiva Subbaiah, Hanchettir Chittiappa and senior member of the association Aichettir Mac Machaiah and other members of the association. - Puttarira Karun Kalaiah