Arulagam at the National Symposium on Vulture Conservation, Gujarat
The National Conference on Vulture Conservation took place on September 29, 2024, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The event was presided over by Mr. Nityanand Srivatsava, Chief Conservator of Forests for Gujarat, and organized by the Bird Conservation Society of Gujarat. Esteemed speakers included Mr. Vibhuprakash, a leading researcher in vulture conservation, and Mr. Chris Bowden from the organization "Saving Asia's Vultures from Extinction." Research Scholars presented their insights spanning across 26 topics.
Veterinarians Percy, Devjit Das, and Prayag focused on the pressing issue of pain medication in veterinary practices. They expressed grave concerns regarding the Union government's delay in banning the drug Nimesulide, which has been proven harmful to vultures. Volunteer advocate Mr. Gaurav Bansal, who has been involved in a legal case on this matter for over 11 years, emphasized the influence of pharmaceutical companies in prolonging the court proceedings.
Mr. Ankit also shared updates on vulture conservation efforts in Nepal, while Dr. Suresh from the Wildlife Institute of India called for enhanced data collection efforts across India.
Bharathidasan, Secretary of Arulagam, delivered a presentation titled "Engaging Stakeholders for Establishing Vulture Safe Zones in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu." He elaborated on Arulagam's collaborative approach, which involves various stakeholders, including the Tamil Nadu government, pharmacists, veterinarians, tribal communities, and elected representatives. His strategies for community engagement were highlighted, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in conservation efforts.
To reshape public perception of vultures, Bharathidasan creatively linked the species to significant cultural themes, such as "Mahatma Gandhi and the Vulture," "Clean India Movement and the Vulture," “Bharathiyar and the Vulture” "Women and the Vulture." I’m the Vulture, Speaking”, COVID-19 Pandemic and the Vulture, Earthworms and the Vulture”
His engaging presentation garnered the attention of the audience, effectively addressing the negative stereotypes often associated with these birds.
The conference concluded with a unanimous resolution:
- Those NSAIDs already identified as vulture- toxin must be banned from the immediate effect.
- Regulation of drugs must be on safety testing on vultures.
- Promoting existing vulture safe drugs by ensuring their availability and distributing them at subsidised rates.
- Identifying additional vulture safe drugs.
