Chhatbir Zoo Marks International Tiger Day with Conservation Drive

International Tiger Day Observed at Chhatbir Zoo with Focus on Wildlife Conservation

Chhatbir (SAS Nagar), July 29: Mahendra Chaudhary (M.C.) Zoological Park, Chhatbir, marked International Tiger Day 2026 with a range of awareness and educational activities aimed at promoting tiger conservation and environmental protection.

Organised under the global theme, “Their Roar Keeps the Forest Alive,” the event brought together school and college students, wildlife enthusiasts and zoo visitors to learn about the crucial role tigers play in maintaining healthy ecosystems and the need to safeguard their natural habitats.

During the programme, State Information Commissioner Harpreet Sandhu unveiled a tiger conservation awareness poster in the presence of Satinder Kumar Sagar, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Nalin Yadav, IFS, Field Director of Chhatbir Zoo, and other senior officials.

Addressing the audience, Harpreet Sandhu described the tiger as India’s National Animal and an important indicator of a healthy forest ecosystem. He said that protecting tigers also helps preserve forests, biodiversity and ecological balance. He encouraged students and young people to actively participate in wildlife conservation and become advocates for protecting nature.

An awareness session featured remarks from Harpal Singh, Public Relations Officer-cum-Wildlife Education Officer, Malti Sachdeva, Principal of Government High School, Chhat, Coordinator Teacher Sushma, and wildlife enthusiast Dr. Sidhartha Sharma. The speakers discussed the ecological importance of tigers, the challenges posed by habitat destruction, poaching and human-wildlife conflict, and the importance of public involvement in conservation efforts.

Satinder Kumar Sagar, IFS, highlighted that International Tiger Day was established in 2010 during the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit in Russia to strengthen global tiger conservation initiatives. While acknowledging improvements in tiger populations over the years, he stressed that sustained conservation measures remain essential.

Nalin Yadav, IFS, said the observance is intended to raise awareness about protecting and expanding tiger habitats worldwide. He described the tiger as a symbol of courage, strength, beauty and national pride, urging people to support the campaign message, “Save the Tiger, Save the Nation’s Pride.”

As part of the celebrations, zoo staff presented a creative interpretation of the word “TIGERS” to inspire visitors to contribute to wildlife conservation.

The programme concluded with students, teachers, visitors and zoo employees taking a collective pledge to protect wildlife and conserve the environment for future generations.