Alarming decline of vulture population for using NSAID

GUWAHATI: A series of impactful awareness programmes to commemorate International Vulture Awareness Day, starting from September 1 to September 2, were conducted by the WWF-India Assam State Office. These programmes were organized across seven esteemed institutes in Assam, involving WWF officials and dedicated volunteers associated with the organization. The representatives were briefed on International Vulture Awareness Day and its significance, the reason for extinction, and the role of every individual regarding vulture conservation. They also shared the initiatives by WWF-India regarding vulture conservation.

The participating institutes included Assam Forest School, Jalukbari, Maharishi Vidya Mandir, Silpukhuri, Cotton Collegiate Government High School, S. B. Deorah College, Gauhati Commerce College, Gauhati University Zoology Department, and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), as informed by State Coordinator WWF-India Assam State Office.

In total, 315 participants actively engaged in these enlightening programmes, where they were introduced to the critical importance of vulture conservation. The primary focus was on the alarming decline of vulture populations, a consequence primarily attributed to the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as diclofenac, in cattle treatment.

Throughout the sessions, participants gained valuable insights into the multiple threats faced by vulture populations, with NSAIDs like aceclofenac, ketoprofen, and nimesulide being significant contributors to their endangerment.

In collaboration with Kaziranga National Park, WWF-India conducted a vulture identification and conservation training session for forest guards. The aim was to equip these dedicated guardians of the wilderness with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect and conserve the critically endangered vulture populations within the reserve and minimize any threats to the remnant population.

The programme concluded on a promising note as participants pledged their commitment to vulture conservation. These initiatives represent a crucial step forward in the realm of vulture conservation in Assam.

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