PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Jan 10: It’s time for the waterbird census.
The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC), a flagship citizen science program launched in 1987 to monitor waterbird populations and their habitats, has commenced its 2025 edition across India from January 4 and the exercise will continue till January 19.
Census Overview and Purpose
This year’s census will include an extensive survey of significant wetlands within a 100-km radius of the Jamshedpur-based Tata Motors plant.
The initiative, a collaborative effort involving Tata Motors Ltd., Wetlands International South Asia, and Srushti Conservation Foundation, seeks to conserve ecologically vital wetlands along the Central Asian Flyway while fostering partnerships and enhancing capacities for their wise use and conservation.
Strategic Preparations at Tata Steel Zoological Park
A preparatory meeting was held yesterday, January 9 at Tata Steel Zoological Park, bringing together local bird experts and officials from Wetlands International South Asia to strategise the census implementation in Jharkhand.
Special emphasis was placed on wetlands in proximity to the Jamshedpur Tata Motors Plant.
The discussions were initiated by Arghya Chakrabarty, technical officer at Wetlands International South Asia, who presented a detailed mapping of wetlands prioritised for survey based on their importance as critical habitats for migratory waterbirds.
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Diverse Group of Birdwatchers Engage in the Effort
The meeting saw participation from 15 birders, including both professionals and amateur bird enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds and age groups.
Notable participants included Dr Vijaya Bharat, a cardiologist and an avid bird watcher, Dr Mithilesh Dutta Dwivedi, a retired professional, Prosenjit Sarkar, Ramesh Kumar Mahato (a snake expert and conservationist), and Dr Shams Parvez Khan, a dentist.
The meeting was further enriched by the presence of eminent birder Pannalal Mahato, who shared his invaluable experience and inspired the team.
Training and Fieldwork to Begin the Census
To kick off the census and provide on-ground support, Asghar Nawab will lead a field session at a nearby wetland today, January 10.
This session will include hands-on training for all participants, focusing on data collection, compilation, and reporting formats as per the AWC protocols.
This concerted effort highlights the critical role of citizen science in wetland conservation and aims to ensure the wise use of these ecosystems while bolstering community engagement in safeguarding the region’s rich biodiversity.
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