Bhubaneswar, 12 August (H.S.): Nandankanan Zoological Park, along with the Chandaka Godibari Kumara Khunti Elephant Training Centre, celebrated World Elephant Day on Tuesday with a series of programs aimed at promoting elephant conservation and raising public awareness about protecting their natural habitats.

At Nandankanan, the resident elephants were treated to a special feast featuring coconut, watermelon, sugarcane, apple, puffed rice, and banana as part of the celebrations. The event also focused on disseminating awareness messages to curb human-elephant conflicts. In a separate ceremony, mahouts were recognized and awarded for their dedicated service. Currently, Nandankanan is home to four elephants.

To engage the younger generation, the park organized drawing and quiz competitions for school students. These activities were designed to educate participants about the significance of preserving elephant habitats, ensuring their protection, and supporting population growth. Discussions highlighted crucial measures such as conserving habitats, safeguarding elephant corridors, and protecting elephants from threats posed by hunters and poachers.

At the Chandaka Godibari Kumara Khunti Elephant Shed, which shelters eight tamed elephants, the day was marked by fruit offerings and public awareness campaigns. Officials also shared updates on the health and well-being of the elephants housed there.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda