As part of World Wildlife Week (2nd–8th October), the Forest Department of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) organised an interactive awareness session for students of Aarey Colony High School. The school, located on the edge of a forested area, offered an ideal setting to educate children about coexisting with wildlife — especially leopards and snakes, which are commonly spotted in the region.
The Leopard Awareness session was conducted by Manasi Warde from RESQ Charitable Trust, who used visuals and real-life experiences to explain key dos and don’ts when sharing spaces with big cats. Raj Jadhav from Madras Crocodile Bank Trust led the Snake Awareness segment, guiding students on how to stay calm and safe during snake encounters.
Forest officials also introduced students to the work of the Aarey camera-trapping team, which monitors leopard movements in collaboration with SGNP.
“Educational initiatives like these are vital in reducing human–wildlife conflicts and building respect for the animals we live alongside. Our RESQ team regularly conducts such sessions across schools in Mumbai and Pune, free of cost, to instill awareness and encourage coexistence from a young age,” said Manasi Warde.
