KOKRAJHAR, Feb 6: To strengthen the bond between young minds and Assam’s rich natural heritage, Manas National Park and Tiger Reserve (MNPTR) organised a four-day Nature Orientation programme from February 3 to 6, 2026.
Held in collaboration with Aaranyak’s Rhino Goes to School initiative, the programme forms a key component of the Manas Mitra project—an outreach effort launched a year ago to bridge the gap between fringe villages and forest conservation.
The programme was conducted across four fringe-area schools—Bonmajra Bodo ME School, Khamardwisa High School, Panbari Girls’ School and Labdanguri ME School—and witnessed the participation of over 600 students. Sessions focused on the ecological importance of Manas National Park, with special emphasis on the conservation of the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros. To make learning engaging and participatory, Aaranyak organised interactive quiz and drawing competitions for the students.
As part of the initiative, students were also presented with animal masks and customised pencils as souvenirs, intended to serve as daily reminders of their responsibility as future guardians of the Tiger Reserve.
A major highlight of the programme was the selection of 50 students for a complimentary educational safari titled Jungle Journey for Juniors (J3). Designed as a “learning-by-exploring” experience, the safari offers students a firsthand understanding of forest ecosystems, ecosystem services and the practical aspects of wildlife conservation.
By nurturing students as Manas Mitras, the initiative aims to build strong grassroots support for conservation, helping ensure the long-term protection of Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through the active involvement of the next generation.
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