Hume Centre For Ecology And Wildlife Biology.

Vultures, a critical keystone species, are currently facing the threat of extinction and are unfortunately often unjustly stigmatized as repugnant birds. This negative portrayal can greatly affect the conservation status of these majestic birds.

Hume Centre, in collaboration with the InsideOut Performance Collective, conducted 'Save Vultures - Theatre and Performance Workshop' with the participation of Sixteen students from various schools in the Wayanad district. The primary objective of this workshop is to empower these students to raise awareness among the general public about vulture conservation through their performances. By utilizing public spaces as their stage, these students aspire to convey the crucial ecosystem roles played by vultures, aiming to shift public perception and garner support for their conservation.

Through the fusion of education and art, this workshop seeks to change the narrative surrounding vultures and encourage a more positive outlook on their significance in maintaining ecological balance.

InsideOut Performance Collective Devendranath Sankaranarayanan Arulagam

Meet Nibin, the talented artist from our very own Cheeyambam hamlet, who has beautifully portrayed the majestic bird, the 'Vulture,' on the walls of an Anganwadi in Cheeyambam. This initiative is part of our collective effort to foster awareness and understanding regarding the critical importance of vulture conservation among the local villagers.

That sounds like an incredibly fascinating and unique topic for a scientific cafe session! Dr. Kaley Mason's exploration of the connections between food and music, particularly within the context of Kerala's food culture and activist songwriting, would undoubtedly have offered attendees a thought-provoking and insightful experience. Dr. Mason's expertise as an Associate Coordinator for World Music at Lewis & Clark College, USA.

The concept of gastro-musical intersections seems intriguing, since it explores how culinary experiences and musical expressions interact, possibly reflecting cultural identities, social movements, or even historical narratives.

It's wonderful that Hume’s Cafe Scientific could host such an esteemed speaker for its 25th edition. Bringing together diverse perspectives between food and music, can broaden our understanding of cultural practices and human expression.

Reflecting on the success of this session, it might be worthwhile to explore similar interdisciplinary themes in future sessions to continue engaging audiences and fostering discussions that delve into the richness of various cultural practices.

ഹ്യൂം സെന്റർ നടത്തി വരുന്ന പൊതു ജന ശാസ്ത്രാവബോധ പരിപാടിയായ കഫേ സയന്റിഫിക്കിന്റെ (Cafe Scientific) ഇരുപത്തി അഞ്ചാമത്തെ എഡിഷനിൽ ഡോ. കേലി മേസൺ "The Vernacular Vitality Of Foodways And Activist Songwriting in Kerala " എന്ന വിഷയത്തെ അധികരിച്ച് സംസാരിക്കുന്നു. ഇന്ന് വൈകുന്നേരം 6 മണിക്ക് *ഹ്യൂം സെന്ററിൽ* വച്ച് നടക്കുന്ന പരിപാടിയിൽ പങ്കെടുക്കാൻ എല്ലാവരെയും ക്ഷണിക്കുന്നു.

Hume Centre, have joined the National Children's Climate Conclave in Trivandrum, where approximately 300 students from across India are participating, and we have set up a kiosk on Climate Action.

Thanks to Rainmatter Foundation for supporting us

Tierra Eco Theatre and Performance Workshop, Calicut

“The earth does not belong to man, man belongs to the earth. All things are connected like the blood that unites us all. Man did not weave the web of life, he is merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself” - ( Words from Chief Seattle’s letter to President Pierce)

Poyilkaav, a biological refuge of the once-widespread coastal forest ecosystem and a sacred grove located in Koyilandy, was selected as the field trip destination for the Tierra program. It hosts a variety of plants, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Guided by Mr. Devendranath, the children walked barefoot into Poyilkaav, holding hands with their eyes closed, connecting with the earth beneath their feet.

Awaiting them in the grove was Mr. Jayachandran, a retired school teacher and a passionate nature enthusiast. He was accompanied by his students, who possessed extensive knowledge of the 197 plant species in Poyilkaav, including their scientific names and distinct features. Mr. Jayachandran shared the significance of some of these plants with the children, emphasizing their importance in the ecosystem. The children found this experience eye-opening, as they learned about the region's original vegetation.

Thanking Devendranath Sankaranarayanan InsideOut Performance Collective and Rainmatter Foundation for their support.

A campaign series launched by Mathrubhumi newspaper, highlighting the impact of climate change on Wayanad, based on Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology's four years of Community Weather Monitoring System.

Special thanks to Anaha Trust and Rainmatter Foundation for their invaluable support.

Tierra Eco Theatre and Performance Workshop, Calicut

Marine ecosystem, Livelihood of Fishermen community and Climate Change 🐟

A special session was organized for the children to gain insights into the lives of fishing communities and the challenges they confront as a result of climate change. The visit took them to the Government Regional Fisheries School in Koyilandy, where the head of the fisheries department provided an informative overview of the various issues affecting fishing communities due to climate change.

One prominent concern revolves around the adoption of costly fishing techniques, leading to economic losses due to the dwindling fish population. Another significant factor is the climatic phenomenon known as El Niño, which exerts a considerable impact on fishing communities by reducing the presence of phytoplankton. These microscopic marine organisms serve as the cornerstone of the oceanic food chain. Typically, ocean currents transport cold, nutrient-rich waters to the surface near the equator, nourishing phytoplankton. However, El Niño's warm water mass disrupts this process, resulting in a noticeable decline in phytoplankton levels. As phytoplankton form the foundation of the marine food web, their diminishing numbers affect higher-level aquatic species. Furthermore, the rising cost of fish compounds the problem, making this once-affordable source of protein increasingly scarce for fishing communities.

Following this informative session, the students had the opportunity to meet with local fishing communities in the area and engage in meaningful conversations with them. A wide range of topics were discussed, including the types of boats used, the variety of fish caught, the types of fishing nets employed, the health challenges associated with their profession, their dietary habits, and the climate-related difficulties they encounter. The primary issues that significantly impact these fishermen include seasonal variations in fish availability and unforeseen changes in weather patterns that disrupt their fishing activities.

Thanking Devendranath Sankaranarayanan (course director), InsideOut Performance Collective and Rainmatter Foundation for their support.

Tierra Eco Theatre and Performance Workshop, Calicut

Understanding our relationship with waste 🗑️♻️

During the Tierra workshop, one of our key activities involved raising awareness about waste in our immediate environment. It's important to note that waste generation has been on a significant upswing worldwide in recent decades, and unfortunately, there are no signs of this trend slowing down. By the year 2050, it is projected that global municipal solid waste will increase by approximately 70%, reaching a staggering 3.4 billion metric tons. Several factors contribute to this surge, including population growth, urbanization, economic expansion, and consumer shopping habits. Shockingly, less than 20% of this waste is recycled annually, with substantial quantities still ending up in landfills.

As part of the workshop, we took children to six different locations within the Calicut district, where waste is primarily generated. These locations included the railway station, the new bus stand, Sm Street and Palayam market, Thali temple, and Njeliyanparambu, which is a waste dumping site. During these visits, children had the opportunity to observe various aspects of waste management. They noted the types of waste generated at each location, identified the sources of waste generation, witnessed how waste collection occurred in these areas, and learned about the subsequent disposal process after collection.

Furthermore, the children conducted interviews with local residents, shopkeepers, and individuals responsible for waste handling. location. In addition to these on-site visits, the children explored the areas surrounding the Cannoli canal and visited Sarovaram park to identify different types of waste in these environments. It was eye-opening to hear from residents living near the Njeliyanparambu waste dumping site about the challenges they face, particularly the unpleasant odors emanating from the open dump.

Thanking Devendranath Sankaranarayanan, InsideOut Performance Collective and Rainmatter Foundation for their support.

So happy to share that our Ecosystem-based Community-led Climate Action program at the Hume Centre has received the prestigious Nexus of Good Annual Awards 2023 in the category of Conservation of Resources or Environment. The award was presented at Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce at Delhi by the former Governor of Jharkhand Mr. Prabhat Kumar (Rtrd IAS). Since its launch in 2018, our initiative has been dedicated to enhancing climate resilience through various community-based rainfall and temperature monitoring systems, as well as nurturing student leadership in climate action.

In 2019, we prepared a Wayanad-specific landslide susceptibility map, accompanied by a handbook on climate action and policy tailored for the district. Additionally, we installed 150 rain gauges and thermometers across the district to monitor rainfall patterns. A close collaboration was established with the District Disaster Management Authority to create an early warning system for residents living in vulnerable and susceptible areas of Wayanad.

Moreover, we have developed a region-specific weather forecast system for Wayanad, which has been operational for the past four years. Furthermore, a five-day rainfall forecast system has been created in association with the Atmospheric Advanced Centre for Atmospheric Radar Research of the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), specifically designed to benefit local farmers. Remarkably, the program has demonstrated an accuracy rate of 60-70 percent in forecasting site-specific rainfall during the south-west monsoon, north-east monsoon, and cyclonic systems.

We deeply appreciate everyone involved in the Climate Action Program, including farmers, school students, local government, and the District Disaster Management team. Our gratitude also goes to the Anaha Trust and the Rainmatter Foundation for their support. Thank you all for working with us to create a sustainable, climate-resilient future.

Rainmatter Foundation

"Act Now, Act for our common future" - The Tierra Theatre and Performance workshop for the Climate Ambassadors of PRISM schools commenced on October 4th and will continue until October 7th, 2023, at GVHSS Nadakkavu in Calicut.

Devendranath Sankaranarayanan InsideOut Performance Collective Rainmatter Foundation

"We at Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology, Wayanad is deeply saddened by the demise of prof. M.S. Swaminathan, the great scientist of plant genetics and food security. His groundbreaking interventions transformed the Indian farming sector by improving the productivity and ensured food security in south asian countries. He stood for farmers' rights over plant genetic resources and recognizing women as farmers. His contributions to combat hidden hunger through agrobiodiversity-based farming have shown a new direction towards a more sustainable, food-secure, and nutritionally secure world. Our thoughts are with his family and community. We pledge to honour his legacy by protecting the environment, ensuring food security, and upholding the rights of farmers."

Second Season of Tierra Theatre and Performance workshop for Climate Cadets happened in the breathtaking surroundings of Begur forest dormitory in Tholpetty, from the 20th to the 24th of September, 2023. This workshop was a gathering of 59 young participants, aged between 12 to 18, who came from a wide range of backgrounds. They represented different cultures, educational backgrounds, geographical locations, and even held differing political views. However, what brought them together was a shared mission: to delve into the realms of culture and nature through the art of performance, all while addressing the urgent issue of climate change.

Tierra immerses its participants in the realm of theater and performance with a profound purpose: to heighten awareness about the pressing need for climate action. It offers a unique space for introspection, enabling participants to examine their relationship with the environment and their role in a world grappling with the climate crisis. Through the medium of creative expression and performance, Tierra empowers its participants to give voice to their thoughts and emotions. These young climate cadets become a source of inspiration for others to embrace sustainable lifestyles, actively contributing to the safeguarding of Earth's essential life-supporting ecosystems.

All thanks to the course director of Tierra Theatre and Performance Workshop Devendranath Sankaranarayanan and InsideOut Performance Collective for taking the children through the world of theatre and performance while focusing on Climate Action.

Day 1:

The journey began from the Hume Centre, where the children boarded the bus which was going to take them to Begur. Along the way to Begur forest, the bus made several stops to pick up more children, each carrying their large bags packed for the 5-day workshop. The children displayed a range of emotions on their faces and through their body language. Some were sad about leaving home, while others were excited to make new friends and eager to discover what the workshop had in store for them. Shyness was also evident as they hesitated to interact with unfamiliar faces.

Despite the initial quietness on the bus, the driver played lively songs, and gradually, a few brave souls started dancing, inspiring others to join in. The bus soon transformed into a festive atmosphere. After an hour and a half, they arrived at Begur Forest Dormitory, a three-story building nestled amidst teak plantations.

Upon disembarking from the bus, the children collected their luggage and proceeded to their respective dormitories. Mr. Manoj Kumar provided them with guidelines for the next five days, explaining the dos and don'ts. The team members from Hume Centre, who were the organizers and facilitators of the camp, were introduced to the children.

The next activity was an ice-breaking session led by Petermash, a charismatic and talented individual. His infectious energy and folk songs quickly dispelled the weariness that had accumulated during the journey. The children were then divided into five groups in preparation for the activities scheduled for the following days.

By this time, everyone had worked up an appetite, they formed a queue heading to the canteen, moving like a line of ants in a rectilinear motion. Waiting for them at the forest canteen was a delicious meal prepared by Miss Sheeba and Mr. Raju, consisting of tasty porridge, tapioca, and chutney. As they savored their meals, they also embraced a valuable lesson: the importance of washing their own plates and glasses. After filling their stomachs and practicing this newfound responsibility, they retraced their steps back to the dormitory. There, they settled down in anticipation of the activities planned for day 2 of the workshop.

Thanking Rainmatter Foundation for supporting us

മോഡൽ റസിഡൻഷ്യൽ സ്കൂളുകളിലെ കുട്ടികൾക്കായി ജില്ലാതല പ്രോജക്ട് രീതിശാസ്ത്ര പരിശീലനം ഹ്യൂം സെൻ്ററിൽ വച്ച് നടന്നു. വയനാട് ജില്ലയിലെ രണ്ട് മോഡൽ റസിഡൻഷ്യൽ സ്കൂളുകളിൽ നിന്നും WISE റസിഡൻഷ്യൽ സ്കൂളുകളിൽ നിന്നും ജില്ലയിലെ വിവിധ ഹാംലെറ്റുകളിൽ നിന്നുമായി 18 കുട്ടികളാണ് പങ്കെടുത്തത്. ഡോ.രതീഷ് ആർ എൽ, ഡോ.അർച്ചന, ഡോ. സുമ റ്റി ആർ, വിഷ്ണുദാസ് സി കെ എന്നിവർ ശിൽപ്പശാലയ്ക്ക് നേതൃത്വം നൽകി.

A district-wise methodology workshop was conducted for students from Model Residential Schools, with the participation of 18 students from two different Model Residential Schools, various tribal hamlets, and WISE Residential Schools. Dr. Rathish R L, Dr. Archana, Dr. Suma T R, and Mr. C K Vishnudas led the workshop.

The second Wipro Earthian Teacher Training Workshop was organized to gather updates from teachers and students participating in the ongoing Wipro Earthian program in schools, as well as to include students and teachers who did not participate in the previous workshop.

The workshop had a total of 65 participants, including both teachers and students. Dr. Suma commenced the session by emphasizing the significance of Wipro's sustainability program to the students.

Miss Dyuthi and Mr. Saurav facilitated the workshop's activities. Each school delegation, consisting of five students and one teacher, presented updates on their ongoing projects. Additionally, an engaging gaming session was conducted, during which participants played two interactive games:

Drains and Springs Game: This game was featured in the water booklet, aiming to help participants understand individual and collective actions toward sustainable water management and to develop a roadmap for sustainable water management.

Zero Waste Card Game: This game was included in the waste booklet, focusing on educating participants about proper waste management practices and the importance of waste reduction.

Thanking Wipro Foundation for supporting us

It's always fulfilling to witness the excitement on the faces of young learners in a laboratory setting. This week, we had the pleasure of hosting visitors from the gifted student team in Wayanad district at our Hume's Curious Zone. Miss Sreekutty, Miss Dyuthi, and Mr. Pallav had meticulously planned the lab visit in advance, ensuring that all the necessary chemicals and materials for the experiments were arranged.

Their goal was to engage and inspire the students through various scientific activities. The planned experiments included the golden spangles test, detecting the presence of starch in potatoes using iodine solution, and checking the pH of soil samples.

A total of 14 students from different schools participated in the lab visit, ranging from 8th to 10th grade. To ensure their safety, we began with a brief discussion of the safety rules pertaining to the laboratory equipment and glassware.

As the students delved into the experiments, their excitement grew palpable. Their faces lit up with amazement as they witnessed color transformations occurring in otherwise colorless substances during the experiments.

Furthermore, we provided a demonstration of the compound microscope and used a permanent slide to show the students Spirogyra algae, allowing them to explore the microscopic world. The children were also given a tour of the genetic lab at Hume, where they were introduced to advanced equipment such as PCR machines, gel documentation systems, centrifuges, the Lx 500 LED Binocular, laminar flow hoods, incubators, and micropipettes.

In addition to hands-on experiments and lab equipment demonstrations, we conducted an educational session on the reproductive processes in flowers, using the hibiscus flower as an example. We also took the opportunity to address the critical topic of zoonotic diseases, emphasizing the 'One World, One Health' concept and focusing on the origins, modes of transmission, symptoms, and preventive measures of Rabies, Kyasanur Forest disease, Leptospirosis, COVID-19, and Nipah virus.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Anilkumar, the coordinator of the gifted school team, for facilitating this wonderful opportunity to introduce these bright young minds to the exciting world of science at Hume's Curious Zone.

Hume Centre is delighted to be a part of the one-day workshop organized by Prism for the teachers of Calicut Medical College Government Higher Secondary School. Dr. Suma T R, co-founder of Hume Centre, had the privilege of introducing the Climate Ambassadors program to the teachers at Prism schools in Calicut. During the workshop, Dr. Suma provided insights into the program's upcoming activities.

The Climate Ambassadors program aims to help children understand the science and politics of climate change, trace indicators of climate change in their surroundings, facilitate mitigation and awareness programs by children, and work towards making schools greener campuses.

This year, we are excited to announce that the program will be held at GVHSS Nadakkavu, GVHSS Karaparamb, and GHSS Medical College.

The workshop's inauguration was graced by the presence of Mr. Pradeep Kumar, the founder of PRISM. Furthermore, Dr. Jaluse, the Principal of GVHSS Nadakkavu, Dr. Pramod, the Headmaster of GHSS Medical College Campus, along with Mr. Manojkumar and Mr. Saneesh from the Hume Centre, graced the stage with their presence.

Thanking Rainmatter Foundation and Samagata Foundation for the opportunity.

ധേ... വീണ്ടുമൊരു ക്യാമ്പ് ദിനം കൂടി. വിവിധ സ്കൂളുകളിൽ നിന്നായി 75 കൂട്ടുകാരുൾപ്പെടെ 98 പേരാണ് ഹ്യൂം സെന്ററും, നാഷണൽ ഗ്രീൻ കോപ്സും, കേരള ശാസ്ത്ര സാങ്കേതിക പരിസ്ഥിതി കൗൺസിലും, ജില്ലാ സയൻസ് ക്ലബ്ബ് അസോസിയേഷൻ വയനാടും ചേർന്ന് നടത്തുന്ന ജില്ലാതല ഏകദിന പ്രൊജക്റ്റ് നിർമാണ പരിശീലന ശില്പശാലയിൽ പങ്കെടുത്തത്. കുട്ടികൾ അവർക്കിടയിലും റിസോഴ്സ്‌ പേഴ്സൺസുമായും നടത്തിയ ചർച്ചകളിലൂടെയും വിശകലനങ്ങളിലൂടെയും 45 പ്രൊജക്റ്റ് വിഷയങ്ങളും മെത്തഡോളജികളുമാണ് ക്യാമ്പിന്റെ ഭാഗമായി നിർമിച്ചത്. സാധാരണ പ്രശ്നങ്ങൾ എങ്ങനെയാണ്‌ റിസർച്ച് ചോദ്യങ്ങൾ ആവുന്നതെന്നും എന്തുകൊണ്ട് എല്ലാവര്ക്കും റിസർച്ച് ചെയ്യാം എന്നും ജൂലൈ 29 നു നടന്ന ആദ്യഘട്ടത്തിൽ നിന്ന് കുട്ടികൾ മനസിലാക്കിയിരുന്നു.

ഈ രണ്ടാം ഘട്ടം കാലിക്കറ്റ് യൂണിവേഴ്സിറ്റി ലൈഫ് സയൻസ് ഡിപ്പാർട്മെൻറ് അസ്സോസിയേറ്റ് പ്രൊഫസ്സറായ ഡോ. ബി.എസ്. ഹരികുമാരൻ തമ്പി ശാസ്ത്ര ബോധമുള്ള ജനതയുടെ സ്വപ്നങ്ങളെ കുറിച്ചും ആ സ്വപ്‌നങ്ങൾ റിസർച്ച് ആക്കി മാറ്റുന്നതിനെ കുറിച്ചും അതുണ്ടാക്കാവുന്ന മാറ്റങ്ങളെ കുറിച്ചുമെല്ലാം സംസാരിച്ചു കൊണ്ടാണ് ക്യാമ്പ് ഉത്ഘാടനം ചെയ്തത്. ഡോ. സുമ.ടി.ആർ. National Children's Science Congress എന്താണെന്നും എങ്ങനെയാണു ഒരു പ്രോജക്ടിന് ചോദ്യങ്ങൾ കണ്ടെത്തുക എന്നും കുട്ടികൾക്ക് പറഞ്ഞു കൊടുത്തു, സി.കെ. വിഷ്ണുദാസ് മെത്തഡോളജി തയ്യാറാക്കുന്നതിനെ കുറിച്ചാണ് കുട്ടികളോട് സംവദിച്ചത്. ഡോ. രതീഷ് ആർ എല്ലും ഡോ. അർച്ചന രതീഷും മെത്തഡോളജി വർക്ഷോപ്പിന് നേതൃത്വം നൽകി. പീറ്റർ മാഷ് ശാസ്ത്രഗീതങ്ങളും കളികളും തമാശകളും ഒക്കെയായി സയൻസ് കൂടുതൽ രസകരമായി കുട്ടികളുടെ കയ്യിലെത്തിച്ചു. മനോജ് കുമാർ സ്വാഗതവും ബാബുജി നന്ദിയും പറഞ്ഞ ക്യാമ്പിൽ ദ്യുതി, സനീഷ്, ലയേഷ്‌, ശ്രീക്കുട്ടി, സൗരവ്, ദിയ, ആര്യ, പോൾ എന്നീ ഹ്യൂം ടീം അംഗങ്ങളും പ്രവർത്തനങ്ങളിൽ പങ്കാളികളായി.

പ്രൊജക്റ്റിൻറെ തുടർ പ്രവർത്തനങ്ങളായി കുട്ടികൾ ടൈം ഫ്രെയിം ഉണ്ടാക്കുകയും ഡാറ്റ കളക്ഷൻ നടത്തുകയും ചെയ്യാൻ അവരീ അവധിക്കാലം ഉപയോഗിക്കുമെന്ന് കരുതുന്നു. തുടർന്ന് അടുത്ത മാസം അവസാനത്തോട് കൂടി ഡാറ്റ കളക്ഷൻ പൂർത്തിയാക്കുമെന്ന പ്രതീക്ഷയിൽ ആ സമയത്ത് ഡാറ്റ അനാലിസിസ് ശില്പശാലയും, പിന്നീട് പ്രൊജക്റ്റ് writing ശില്പശാലയും പ്രസന്റേഷൻ ശില്പശാലയും ഉണ്ടായിരിക്കുന്നതാണ്.

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Vultures often receive a negative response when people are asked if they like them, largely because of their less-than-appealing appearance and scavenging habits. However, this unfavorable view is typically held by those who may not be aware of the crucial ecological services that vultures provide. Vultures play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by cleaning up ungulate carcasses and preventing the spread of diseases.

These majestic birds are currently in dire need of conservation efforts due to a significant decline in their populations. This decline can be attributed primarily to the use of diclofenac-based veterinary drugs. In fact, the populations of some vulture species have plummeted by over 99 percent, pushing these remarkable birds to the brink of extinction. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Indian government took a significant step by banning the veterinary use of diclofenac in 2006, and more recently, aceclofenac and ketoprofen for the same purpose.

India is indeed home to nine distinct species of vultures. However, in Kerala, vultures can only be observed within the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is particularly notable for being a habitat for three vulture species: the White-rumped Vulture, Indian Vulture, and Red-headed Vulture. Unfortunately, all three of these vulture species are critically endangered and require immediate attention to ensure their survival.

In a collaborative effort, the Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Arulagam came together to organize the International Vulture Awareness Day 2023 in Gaja, Sulthan Bathery. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary stands as the sole sanctuary in the Kerala state where these majestic vultures can still be spotted.

The event commenced with an inaugural speech by Mr. Martin Lowel, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of North Wayanad, who emphasized the critical role that the younger generation must play in conserving biodiversity. He underscored the importance of events like Vulture Awareness Day in raising awareness across various sections of the population.

Dr. Rathish R L, Assistant Professor at Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences, delivered a thought-provoking session on "Vultures and NSAIDs." Dr. Rathish highlighted how the decline of vultures could lead to ecological imbalances, potentially resulting in the emergence of animal-borne diseases. He also cautioned against quack practices involving banned veterinary drugs, which could have disastrous consequences on the vulture population.

Mr. C K Vishnudas, Director of the Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology, spoke during his session titled "Vultures – Species, Significance & Status." He emphasized that the decline of large predators could disrupt the food chain, affecting vultures. Mr. Vishnudas called for the formulation of forest management practices that consider the diminishing vulture breeding habitats within Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Environmental activist Mr. Badusha, in his speech, acknowledged the deleterious impact of human activities on biodiversity but also highlighted the positive impact of sound scientific practices in reviving seemingly lost causes.

Mr. S Ranjith Kumar, Assistant Wildlife Warden of Sulthan Bathery Range, and Mr. Salim, Assistant Wildlife Warden of Kurichiad Range, lent their presence and support to the program. The event saw active participation from forest officers, students, and teachers. Miss. Sreekutty Santhosh delivered the welcome address, and Miss. Dyuthi B S expressed the vote of thanks, concluding the event on a note of collective responsibility.

Arulagam Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Muthanga Range Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Tholpetty Range Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department

International Vulture Awareness Day 2023

Imagine the positive impact of having dedicated volunteers who take on leadership roles to monitor all climate parameters and effectively coordinate disaster management efforts. These individuals could be aptly named "Community Climate Managers."

The role of Community Climate Managers involves systematic monitoring and support for farmers and citizen scientists in data collection. They would ensure data accuracy, foster connections through regional WhatsApp groups, and facilitate collaboration with local governing bodies. Additionally, these managers would raise awareness about both global and local climate changes, sharing vital information with the public.

Taking the first step towards this initiative, the Hume Centre organized a district-level program to train Community Climate Managers. This program brought together 50 participants, with the goal of appointing four managers from each panchayat. The welcome address of the program was given by Miss. Renjini, who works in Climate Action. The program was inaugurated by Mr. Samshad Marakkar, District Panchayat President, who highlighted the various indicators of climate change specific to Wayanad district.

Dr. Akhil from the District Disaster Management Authority explained the existing disaster management structure in the country, with a focus on Wayanad district. He elaborated on recognized disasters in the area and how the DDMA addresses them.

Notably, Mr. C K Vishnudas presented on "Climate Change and Wayanad." He drew connections between rainfall data and disaster occurrences, explaining the role of different cloud types in regional rainfall patterns. He also explored reasons behind landslides in specific areas like Puthumala, Kurichiarmala, and Mundakkai, attributing them in part to the absence of deep-rooted trees and high intensity of rainfall within a short period. The hilly regions with sloping terrain in Wayanad, landslides become a significant concern when there is continuous rainfall for three days, accumulating up to 800 mm of rainfall. Additionally, he highlighted that areas such as Mundakolly and Pulpally are rainshadow regions, which explains their lower levels of rainfall. Mr. Vishnudas highlighted the local community-based weather monitoring system pioneered by the Hume Centre.

Dr. Suma T R discussed the significance of the Climate Managers program at the Panchayat level. She emphasized the importance of equipping managers with fundamental knowledge about climate resilience. Dr. Suma also explored the relationship between climate change and zoonotic diseases, underscoring shifts in animal behavior due to rising temperatures. She elaborated on how various sectors like Agriculture, Biodiversity Management Committees, and Watershed Management Committees could contribute to the success of the Climate Managers program.

The vote of thanks was given by Mr. Babuji K R. The success of the program was attributed to the support from Rainmatter Foundation. Also, thanks were extended to individuals from Kerala State Disaster Management Authority and Wayanad District Disaster Management Authority for their contributions. Gratitude was also extended to Miss. Sreya for her diligent efforts in organizing the program and successfully bringing together the future climate managers.