OSAI

Conservation of fauna and flora being more important than ever before, OSAI organised its 8th annual photographic exhibition 'UYIR NIZHAL 2010' on the fauna and flora of the Western Ghats in VOC park, Coimbatore from October 9th to 18th, 2010 as a part of the World Wildlife Week Celebration.

The event was inaugurated by Mr.A.S. Balanathan, I.F.S, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Tamilnadu Forest Department; the Coimbatore District Collector Dr. P. Umanath, I.A.S, presided over the function; Dr. Ravi Chellam, Country Director, WCS-India Program, delivered the keynote address. Mr.S.S. Venkatesan, President, Rotary Club of Coimbatore Metropolis felicitated the event.

Photographs on the various varieties of fauna and flora, taken by some prominent photographers, members, non-members, first-timers and individuals were displayed. Also, photographs taken by young students were on display to encourage and nurture young nature lovers and conservationists.

The photographs were sectioned into different categories for the ease of viewing and understanding for the public. Insects, birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals.

Special gallery for tigers was put up which not only displayed their majestic photographs but also important facts about their birth, territory, hunting, parental care, habits and challenges they face. This helped the public to understand their lifestyle.

Photographs on the unfortunate consequences of man-animal conflict was presented to the public to make them aware of the issue and understand the reasons behind it.

Documentaries like "Save our Sholas", "Truth about Tigers" were screened to educate the public about the need to conserve nature for posterity.

Many schools and colleges visited the exhibition and took home the importance of conserving our forests. Students from various institutions actively took part as volunteers for organizing the exhibition, without whom this wouldn't have been possible.

We also thank our media friends for their support in this regard by communicating to the people and masses about the event.

The event spread the message of conservation which was evident from the good number of feedbacks and membership requests we received from people cutting across gender, age, section, etc.

Surely, we are confident that the 8th annual photographic exhibition "Uyir Nizhal 2010" has sowed the seeds of conservation in the minds of people who visited it and add our strength both in numbers and determination in conserving our beloved forests and its inhabitants.

We thank all of you who contributed in whatever way they could for organizing the event in such a successful manner.