RGU leads awareness drive to protect endangered salamander habitats in Darjeeling

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 11, 2025

Assam Royal Global University (RGU), under its India Bioscience Outreach Grant 2024–2025, conducted an awareness programme focused on conserving salamander habitats in the ecologically sensitive Sittong region of Darjeeling district.

Led by Dr. Upashna Chettri, Assistant Professor in the Department of Botany, the event took place on July 4 at K.N. Memorial School, Sittong, in collaboration with the West Bengal government. The initiative aimed to educate the local community about the conservation of Namthing Pokhari, a high-altitude wetland that serves as a vital breeding ground for the endangered Himalayan Salamander (Tylototriton verrucosus).

The programme highlighted the importance of wetlands and amphibians as bioindicators of ecosystem health. Officials including the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), and Block Development Officer (BDO) attended, emphasizing the need for collective action in preserving biodiversity.

Bharat Prakash Rai, founder secretary of the Federation of Societies for Environmental Protection (FOSEP), addressed local conservation challenges and advocated for sustainable tourism to ease environmental pressure in regions like Sittong.

The event concluded with an open forum where residents, students, and officials exchanged ideas and voiced concerns about protecting their environment. The programme marked a meaningful step toward community-based conservation of the Himalayan Salamander and its fragile habitat.