Wildlife Week is celebrated across India from 1st to 8th October every year to raise awareness about the need to conserve our rich biodiversity. The 74th Wildlife Week 2025 was celebrated by the Wildlife and Eco-tourism Division, South Goa, Goa Forest Department, under this year’s theme — “Human–Animal Coexistence” by incorporating the messages of “Mission LIFE” and “Say No To Plastics”. A cycle rally was conducted at Cotigao WLS, Canacona marking the inaugural of the Wildlife Week.
A series of online and offline competitions were organised for students from Standard I to college level, encouraging creativity and awareness about Goa’s wildlife.
Online competitions included a Leaf Painting contest for Classes V–VII on “Spiders of Goa” and a Mobile Photography contest for Classes VIII–X on “Odonates of Goa.”
Offline competitions featured a Fancy Dress competition for Classes I–IV and Differently Abled Children on “Butterflies of Goa,” a Rangoli competition for Classes XI–XII on “Wildlife of Goa” and for Differently Abled students on “Fruits of Goa.”
A State-level Quiz Competition on “Human–Animal Coexistence” witnessed enthusiastic participation from colleges across Goa.
The Valedictory Function was held on October 8 at the Dr Francisco Luis Gomes District Library, Navelim, Margao who extended their support throughout the celebration of the Wildlife Week. An awareness talk on human-animal coexistence was delivered by the Guest Speaker, Benhail Antao, a noted wildlife conservationist and television host known for his work on the National Geographic series “Snakes SOS: Goa Wild West.” His engaging session inspired the audience to understand and respect the delicate balance between humans and wildlife.
The Chief Guest, Dr Ankit Kumar, IFS, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Research and Utilisation Division, Margao graced the occasion with his presence and addressed the gathering along with Mangirish Dharwadkar, Nodal Officer, Public Outreach Programme, Wildlife & Eco-tourism (South) briefed the audience about various competitions, awareness activities, nature trails and lectures conducted during the Wildlife Week. Other dignitaries present at the dais were Anand Mestri, Range Forest Officer, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary and Rajesh Naik, Range Forest Officer, South Goa Marine Range, Galgibag.
The winners of all competitions were felicitated by the Chief Guest, followed by a vote of thanks by Rajesh Naik. The celebrations concluded with a message of harmony, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility in conserving Goa’s wildlife and fostering peaceful coexistence between humans and animals.
