Sri Vijaya Puram, June 21: Bageecha – an Andaman Chronicle initiative, in collaboration with the EIACP- Centre on Island Biodiversity, Zoological Survey of India, Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre, A & N Islands organised an awareness sessionn on the Faunal diversity of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands for children of different age groups at Bageecha, Brichgunj Chowk, Prothrapur, on 20th June 2026. The programme was conducted with the objective of sensitising young learners to the extraordinary biodiversity of the islands and helping them understand the importance of conservation through interactive and activity-based learning.
The session on the fauna of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands was delivered by Dr. Romila, Programme Officer (EIACP/ZSI/ANRC) who introduced the children to the rich animal diversity of the islands and explained the significance of biodiversity conservation in maintaining ecological balance and protecting fragile island ecosystems. She also spoke about endemic species found only in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, highlighting their unique evolutionary significance and vulnerability. The session emphasised why the unique wildlife of the islands is important not only from an ecological perspective but also for the environmental identity and long-term sustainability of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
As part of the programme, an engaging habitat matching activity and bird call identification session were conducted by Ms. Supriya, Data Entry Operator (EIACP/ZSI) and Ms. Nirmitha, Information Officer (EIACP/ZSI). These interactive activities helped the children connect species with their natural habitats and recognise bird calls, making the learning process more enjoyable and memorable. They also discussed the growing issue of marine pollution, explaining how plastic waste and other pollutants affect marine animals, coastal habitats, and the health of island ecosystems.
A lively group discussion followed, during which the children displayed keen curiosity and enthusiasm by asking questions on several aspects of local biodiversity. Among the topics raised were questions about moths and butterflies, their differences, and their ecological roles. This interactive exchange created an open platform for children to express their observations and deepen their understanding of the natural world around them.
The programme also featured a dynamic interaction by Mr. Denis Giles, Editor, Andaman Chronicle, who engaged the children on the pressing issue of plastic pollution and the broader importance of environmental protection. During his session, he explained why the island environment is especially sensitive, how protecting nature matters in everyday life, and why the Andaman and Nicobar Islands hold special ecological and cultural significance.
He also stressed that we cannot eliminate the use of plastic in modern life, but we can reduce, rethink, and replace it with smarter, greener alternatives. Using vivid examples, he told the children that every small choice like carrying a cloth bag instead of a plastic one, using a reusable bottle, or saying no to single use. He encouraged them to spot where plastic is used and find creative ways to cut it down, turning everyday habits into powerful acts of conservation.
Mr. Giles also drew the children’s attention to the Great Nicobar Project, explaining its scale, potential environmental impacts, and the need for careful, science-based planning to balance development with conservation. He highlighted the rich diversity of indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including the Jarawa, Great Andamanese, Onge, and Shompen, and spoke about respecting their traditions, rights, and unique ways of life that are deeply connected to the islands’ ecosystems.
He also acknowledged Dr. C. Sivaperuman, Additional Director, ZSI/ANRC, and the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) for their critical roles in biodiversity research, wildlife documentation, and conservation efforts in the islands, emphasizing how such scientific work forms the backbone of informed conservation policies. Zoological Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre, expressed its appreciation to Bageecha and Andaman Chronicle for their collaboration in organising the programme. Such initiatives contribute to building environmental awareness among younger generations and strengthening public appreciation for the unique faunal diversity of the islands.