Wildlife Conflict: Reasons and Remedies at Naipunnya School of Management, Cherthala

• 18-03-2025

As part of World Wildlife Week, the Bhoomitrasena Club of Naipunnya School of Management organized an enlightening and thought-provoking seminar titled "Wildlife Conflict: Reasons and Remedies" on March 18, 2025. The event took place in the PG Seminar Hall at 10:30 AM, attracting a diverse audience eager to learn about the growing issue of human-wildlife conflict and its potential solutions. The seminar was conducted in collaboration with the Kerala State Biodiversity Board, ensuring the inclusion of expert perspectives and practical recommendations on wildlife conservation.

The event began with an inaugural session skillfully anchored by Ms. Megha Mohan, a student of S4 B.Com Finance. She welcomed the attendees and set the stage for the proceedings. The session opened with a soulful prayer by Ms. Presty P F , also from S4 B.Com Finance, which set a reflective and respectful tone for the day. The prayer was followed by a warm and engaging welcome speech by Mr. V.R. Renju Chandran, the Nature Club Coordinator. Mr. Chandran expressed gratitude to the participants and emphasized the critical importance of wildlife conservation, particularly in the context of the escalating human-wildlife conflicts that threaten biodiversity across the globe. His words highlighted how essential it is to address these issues urgently, ensuring the survival of both wildlife and humans in a harmonious coexistence.

The focal point of the seminar was the expert talk delivered by Mr. Balasankar Ambalapuzha, a distinguished wildlife journalist and former Assistant Editor of Aranyam Wildlife Magazine. Mr. Balasankar’s deep knowledge and vast experience in the field of wildlife journalism were evident as he elaborated on the pressing issue of human-wildlife conflict. He explained how urban expansion, habitat destruction, and climate change have forced animals to encroach upon human settlements, leading to an increase in conflicts. This situation, he emphasized, not only endangers wildlife but also poses risks to human safety and livelihoods.

Mr. Balasankar discussed the root causes of these conflicts, such as the loss of natural habitats due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and infrastructural development. He also addressed how climate change has altered migration patterns and food availability for various species, further exacerbating the issue. To combat this, he proposed several remedies, including community engagement initiatives, the development of early warning systems, and proactive policy interventions that would ensure the protection of wildlife habitats while mitigating human-wildlife interactions.

The seminar was structured to be interactive, encouraging students to actively participate in discussions and ask questions. The exchange of ideas enriched the learning experience and allowed attendees to explore diverse viewpoints. Mr. Balasankar’s storytelling approach made the complex topic of wildlife conservation engaging and accessible, prompting the audience to think critically about the role they can play in protecting biodiversity. His insights sparked meaningful conversations about the importance of creating a balance between development and conservation efforts.

After the talk, students Arjun A.V. and Nimisha shared their reflections on the session. They expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges surrounding wildlife conservation. They also underscored the need for increased youth involvement in biodiversity protection, recognizing that future leaders have a significant role in shaping policies and promoting sustainable practices.

The seminar concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Ms. Devangana, a student of S4 B.Com Finance. She acknowledged the efforts of the Bhoomitrasena Club, the Kerala State Biodiversity Board, and all participants for their contributions in making the event a success. In her closing remarks, she reiterated the importance of collective action and the need for a unified approach in addressing the growing challenges of wildlife conservation.

Overall, the seminar proved to be a meaningful and informative event that brought awareness to the urgent issue of human-wildlife conflict and highlighted the necessity for sustainable solutions and active participation from all sections of society.

Programme Expenditure

Report of the programme  Download