Awareness Events in the Sathymangalam Tiger Reserve - Jan/Feb 2025
An awareness event will be held from January 27 to February 1, 2025, across the villages within the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve. The event aims to raise awareness about banned medicines for livestock, the dangers of high-voltage electric fences, the destruction caused by forest fires, and the harm caused by poisoning.
The event in Karachikorrai village was presided over by Arulagam Secretary S. Bharathidasan with Foresters Kannan and Senthilkumar in attendance. During the inauguration, Bharathidasan welcomed the recent ban on the use of the livestock drug nimesulide,' effective from January 1, 2025, to protect the vultures. He also highlighted past efforts by Arulagam, in partnership with the Forest Department, to implement bans on other harmful drugs like diclofenac in 2006, and ketoprofen and aceclofenac in 2023. These initiatives have been aimed at educating drug dealers, veterinarians, livestock breeders, dairy associations, and the general public about the risks of these substances.
Durairam, Satheeskumar, and Kuppusami of the Forest Department distributed informational pamphlets on the dangers posed by improperly installed high-voltage electric fences. Arulagam members Sundari, Revathi, Santosh, and John also distributed pamphlets to raise awareness about banned drugs and the importance of protecting griffon vultures.
The event was made possible with the support and coordination of the Forest Department, under the guidance of Bhavanisagar Forest Officer Sadham. In addition, artists Ponraj, Kadalarasan, Udayashankar, Brinda, and Durga, led by Senthil, engaged the community through songs, drama, and performances to further spread the message.
The event began in Karachikorrai and has since been held in Kothamangalam, Nerunchipettai, Rajan Nagar, Patramangalam, Tengumaragada, Kallampalayam, Allimayar, and Pudukkadu, where it has been well received by the local public.
Events will take place in Bhavanisagar, Sathyamangalam, Dukanayakkan Palayam, and Kadambur. Your support in spreading awareness is greatly appreciated.
