Nandankanan Zoological Park joined the global celebration of World Elephant Day today, spotlighting the importance of elephant conservation and public awareness.
The event drew enthusiastic participation from schoolchildren, wildlife experts, and nature lovers alike.
The park’s four resident elephants — Basanti (61), Heera (27), and the calves Asha and Lisha (both nearly 2 years old) — were the stars of the day. A special fruit feast and enrichment activities were arranged, delighting visitors and showcasing the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare.
Nandankanan has been a sanctuary for elephants since 1972, playing a vital role in rescue and rehabilitation efforts across Odisha. Asha’s recovery story, from a life-threatening forelimb injury at just three months old to becoming a symbol of resilience, was highlighted as a beacon of hope.
Educational sessions led by zoo educators covered the natural history of Asian elephants, threats from habitat loss and poaching, and the need for peaceful human-elephant coexistence. Interactive activities like quizzes, origami, and storytelling engaged young minds, fostering a new generation of conservation advocates.
The event was graced by Sri Bikash Ranjan Dash, Chief Conservator of Forests, and members of the Nature and Wildlife Conservation Society of Odisha (NWCSO), alongside 30 school students. It concluded with a collective pledge to protect elephants and their habitats, reaffirming Nandankanan’s enduring commitment to wildlife conservation.
