Kaziranga marks International Primate Day with students and communities

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaSeptember 2, 2025

Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, in collaboration with conservation organisation Aaranyak, celebrated International Primate Day on Monday at Rhinoland Park in the Burapahar Range of Kaziranga.

The event drew enthusiastic participation from 40 students of Kaliabor College and Jakhalabandha Higher Secondary School, alongside members of nearby fringe communities. Several Eco-Development Committees, including those from Amgurichang, Amguri Bagan, Panbari, Diffaloo Pathar, Borbheta, and Rangaloo, also joined, highlighting the critical role of local involvement in primate conservation.

The programme opened with an introductory session followed by a guided primate walk, offering participants an opportunity to observe habitats and learn about the ecological significance of primates. A live session provided further insights into primate behaviour, ecosystem roles, and conservation needs. One of the highlights was a demonstration of canopy bridge-making using jute ropes, showcasing how such structures can help primates safely cross highways and reduce roadkill.

Dr. Dilip Chetry, Director and Head of Aaranyak’s Primate Research and Conservation Division, delivered the keynote session, stressing the importance of primate ecology and the challenges of conservation in Assam. Interactive discussions and community engagement kept the event lively, making it an educational experience for both students and villagers.

The celebration underscored Kaziranga’s commitment not only to conserving its world-famous megafauna but also to raising awareness about lesser-known wildlife like primates, which play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.

The programme concluded with a collective call for stronger collaboration among Kaziranga National Park, Aaranyak, local communities, and young students to ensure a safe future for primates in the greater Kaziranga landscape.