Media Release
Belagavi, Oct 8: “Protecting wildlife is not just our responsibility—it is our responsibility to future generations”. This powerful message echoed at the valedictory function of the 72nd Wild Animal Welfare Week held at St Paul’s High School, Belagavi, on the theme 'Protecting Habitat and Saving Wildlife'.
The programme aimed to sensitise students to the urgent need to protect wildlife, preserve animal habitats and develop compassion and respect for every living creature.
The programme began with a meaningful prayer led by Yashraj Pawashe, who thanked God for the beauty of creation and for the wonderful creatures that share our planet.
Atharv Shirol, Gagan Kamagol and Shreyas Vijaykumar delivered informative messages highlighting India’s rich wildlife heritage and the vital role animals play in maintaining ecological balance.
They urged everyone to care for animals and protect their natural habitats.
The programme was graced by Prashant L Gourani, range forest officer, Belagavi, and Ashok Lalasangi, deputy range forest officer, Belagavi.
The forest department officials felicitated Fr Eric Mathias, SJ, principal, and Fr Alendro D’Costa, SJ, vice principal, St Paul’s High School, in recognition of their support for promoting awareness of and concern for nature and wildlife.
In a special gesture of appreciation, Avadooth Tudvekar, Padmaprasaad Hooli, Raju Takkekar and Irfan, a snake rescuer, were felicitated for their valuable service to wildlife and society.
Shajeed Bai was also honoured for his commendable contribution to protecting nature and wild animals.
The significance of World Animal Day was explained to the students in a simple and engaging manner. Students participated enthusiastically in speech, drawing and essay-writing competitions, expressing their creativity and concern for animals and the environment.
The dignitaries called upon the students to become young ambassadors of wildlife conservation, urging them to protect animal habitats, provide food and water to animals where appropriate, avoid disturbing wildlife, and treat every living being with kindness and compassion.
The celebration concluded with a stirring message to the young generation: “When we save a habitat, we save countless lives; when we protect wildlife, we protect our own future.”
The programme inspired the students to embrace a culture of compassion, conservation and care for our common home.