Latest news with #RajeevChauhan
Time of India
4 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Beyond Guns & Gore: Chambal sanctuary sees sharpest rise in gharial count
A successful breeding programme, effective habitat protection measures and minimum human intervention has seen the sharpest rise in the gharials' number in the UP side of National Chambal Sanctuary. Guns and gore are passé. Gharials are the latest newsmakers from Chambal. The National Chambal Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh has seen the sharpest jump in the number of Gharials this year — from 1,880 in 2024 to 2,026 in 2025 — since 1975 when the conservation of crocodiles started in India. Wildlife warden of National Chambal Sanctuary, KC Shekhar, says, 'Notably, the gharial count of 2,026 includes both juveniles and adults. This counting is done when they come to sun-bathe on the sand beaches during winter. It's not neces-sary that all gharials come out to sunbathe at the same time. Some remain in the water which makes it difficult to count them, so the actual number might be higher.' Chandni Singh, the divisional forest officer (DFO) of the sanctuary, says the development bucks the global trend. 'The Chambal river's pristine ecosystem has shown encouraging growth in populations of two native crocodile species — gharials (Gavialis Gangeticus) and muggers (Crocodylus Palustris),' she says, adding 'these achievements stem from dedicated conservation work by forest staff, wildlife organisations, and local communities. ' Secretary general of National Chambal Sanctuary, Rajeev Chauhan, also supported the official figures and said that the number could increase if advanced methods were used for counting. 'The increase signifies that UP has become a pioneering state in conservation. This shows that Chambal is not polluted as these reptiles prefer fresh water.' The Indian gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), a distinctive species, traditionally inhabited Indian rivers in large numbers. Its population decline resulted in its inclusion on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List for the past several decades. The govt of India also launched the Crocodile Conservation project across the country on June 17, 1975. The National Chambal Sanctuary expanding across three states was declared a national sanctuary in 1979. The total area of the sanctuary is approximately 5400 sq km out of which the UP side covering Etawah, Agra and Auraiya dists is about 635 sq km. In UP, it starts from Taasond village located in Agra dist on UP-Rajasthan border to Pachnada, located on the border of Etawah and Jalaun dists, the area infamous for bandits in the past. The 2025 numbers — 2,024 — are only for the UP side of the sanctuary. While these creatures survive only in select rivers, Chambal has come up as a haven. A limited number of gharials are found in the Ganga as well. In 1975, when the conservation project started, the number of gharials in the sanctuary was just 200. Since then, the number has gone up steadily, but 2008 saw a grave crisis when 112 reptiles perished and the conservation project came under heavy scrutiny, says Dr Rajeev Chauhan, the secretary general of the Society for Conservation of Nature. KC Raj Shekhar, the wildlife warden of the sanctuary says that the rise of 146 in gharials' number is sharpest since 1975. 'If we look at the data, the count would only increase or decrease by 8 to 10, but this year's count of 146 is remarkable, and everyone is excited.' DFO Chandni Singh confirmed that joint survey results motivated the forest department, validating their staff's efforts. The surveys also revealed an increase in muggers' populations in the Chambal to 869, up from 742 last year. Previous counts showed 608 in 2023, 594 in 2022, and 586 in 2021. The success story of crocodile conservation in the Chambal River ecosystem demonstrates the effectiveness of long-term preservation efforts. Gharial's distinctive long, narrow snout and mugger's broader jaw structure represent different evolutionary adaptations to their riverine habitat. Gharials primarily feed on fish, while muggers have a more varied diet including fish, reptiles, and small mammals. This dietary distinction has helped both species coexist in the Chambal's waters without significant competition. Local communities along the river have played a crucial role in this conservation success. They serve as wildlife guardians, reporting illegal activities and protecting nesting sites. The forest department has established a network of monitoring stations along the river, where staff regularly patrol and document crocodile behaviour and population dynamics. 'The sanctuary's success also stems from its strict regulations against sand mining, fishing, and other human activities that could disturb the crocodiles' habitat. Regular monitoring of water quality and maintaining adequate water levels have ensured suitable conditions for breeding and survival,' says a efforts include protecting nesting sites during breeding season, which occurs between March and May. Forest staff carefully monitor these sites to prevent egg collection and predation. The department has also implemented awareness programmes in villages along the river, educating locals about the importance of these species to the ecosystem. The increase in numbers also reflects successful breeding programmes and habitat protection measures. Young gharials and muggers now have better survival rates due to reduced human interference and improved riverside vegetation cover. The sanctuary's approach combines scientific monitoring with traditional ecological knowledge, creating an effective conservation model. These positive results have encouraged neighbouring states to adopt similar conservation strategies. The success in Chambal demonstrates that with dedicated effort and community participation, endangered species can recover and thrive in their natural habitats.
Time of India
17-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Etawah celebrates 50 yrs of gharial conservation on World Crocodile Day
Kanpur: On the occasion of World Crocodile Day, Etawah district celebrated the golden jubilee of gharial conservation on Tuesday, marking 50 years since the launch of the initiative in Uttar Pradesh. The event, organised jointly by the Forest Department and the Society for Conservation of Nature (SCON), brought together forest officials, wildlife experts, educators, and conservation enthusiasts. Dr Rajeev Chauhan, General Secretary of SCON, highlighted that the gharial conservation programme was first launched in 1975. Under this initiative, eggs collected from the Chambal River in Etawah were incubated and the hatchlings were raised for three to five years at the Kukrail Gharial Rehabilitation Centre in Lucknow before being released back into the Chambal. These efforts have led to a significant increase in the gharial population, which now stands between 2,000 and 2,500. Basrehar forest officer Amit Solanki credited the success of the programme to the collaborative efforts of forest officials, local communities, and public representatives. Forest officers Ashok Kumar Sharma (Badhpura) and Vinod Kumar (Qila Range) also shared insights into conservation and breeding efforts. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Nirmal Chand Bajpai, Principal of Ashram Paddati Vidyalaya, recalled that before 1975, the Chambal River saw rampant fishing and little awareness about gharials, with their population dwindling to just 200 at the time. Dr Atri Gupta, lecturer in zoology at Janta PG College, Bakewar, emphasised the gharial's evolutionary significance, noting that it is among the world's oldest surviving reptiles. Of the three crocodilian species found in India—mugger, saltwater crocodile, and gharial—two, the mugger and the gharial, are found in Etawah. All are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. She also recalled that a natural disaster in late 2007 resulted in the death of 112 rare gharials. Dr Ramjanm Singh, a member of the State Resource Group, underlined the importance of the Chambal River, known for its pristine water—ideal for gharial survival and breeding. Sanjeev Chauhan, District Programme Officer of Namami Gange, noted that World Crocodile Day, observed globally on June 17, aims to raise awareness about crocodile conservation and reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Time of India
24-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
‘Collective efforts needed for conservation of turtles'
Kanpur: A seminar commemorating World Turtle Day 2025, was held at the Government Inter College, Etawah, on Friday. The event was collaboratively organised by the Social Forestry Division Etawah, District Ganga Protection Committee, and District Environment Committee Etawah. District inspector of schools (DIOS) Manoj Kumar inaugurated the event. He emphasised that turtles are nature's special contribution to humanity, serving an essential function in maintaining the cleanliness of natural water bodies. He highlighted that these long-living creatures, capable of surviving for centuries, face extinction risks, necessitating collective conservation efforts. Dr Rajeev Chauhan, general secretary of Society for Conservation of Nature, delivered the keynote address, highlighting that turtle species have inhabited Earth for roughly 200 million years, ranking among the world's most ancient surviving species. He noted that of India's 29 turtle species, five are marine-dwelling. The Etawah district hosts approximately 10 species, with seven receiving protection under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. Dr Rajesh Kumar, basic education officer, informed that May 23 is annually observed as World Turtle Day globally, aiming to spotlight these creatures and promote their conservation through human intervention. Principal Dr Deepak Saxena discussed turtles' ecological significance in maintaining river water purity through their consumption of decomposing carcasses and algae, thereby reducing water pollution. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Brother's Day wishes , messages and quotes !
Time of India
22-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
Kanpur Temple turtles trade tradition for paneer treats
In a quiet corner of Kanpur, a centuries-old temple has become home to an unexpected spectacle — a group of softshell turtles with an unusual appetite for paneer. Every Wednesday, the pond beside the Panki Dham temple , also known as Panki Nageshwar, comes alive as turtles surface eagerly to feast on cubes of cottage cheese tossed in by visiting devotees, according to a TOI report. Around 150 turtles live in this two-bigha pond, but their fondness for dairy — a rarity in the wild — has turned them into a local curiosity and a subject of interest for conservationists. A surprising switch Temple caretaker Mahant Devi Dayal Pathak, whose family has been managing the temple for over three centuries, said the tradition started when a visiting academic offered paneer to the turtles during a visit. 'They used to eat flour balls offered by devotees, but now they prefer paneer,' he told TOI . 'It's become a part of the temple routine.' While turtles generally don't consume dairy, these softshell turtles seem to have adapted. Their behavior is especially striking given their natural diet, which includes fish, insects, and dead matter. Midweek ritual Wednesdays at the temple draw larger crowds, partly due to a belief that feeding turtles brings blessings from Mercury, the planet associated with this day in Hindu mythology. Live Events For many, it's a spiritual offering. For others, it's a sight worth watching — dozens of turtle heads popping out of the water the moment cheese touches the surface, said TOI . Conservation meets tradition Wildlife experts say this unusual feeding pattern warrants closer study. Dr. Rajeev Chauhan, a conservationist, noted that while the species — Nilssonia gangetica — is generally carnivorous, its digestive system can handle high-protein foods like cheese. 'It's not typical, but it's not entirely harmful either — as long as it's managed responsibly,' he told the news outlet. The turtles are listed under India's highest level of wildlife protection laws, meaning they cannot be captured, harmed, or traded. As such, their growing popularity at the temple has led to increased efforts to safeguard their environment. Temple pond now a turtle refuge Efforts have been made to keep the habitat healthy. A man-made island in the pond provides a space for nesting, and temple staff monitor water quality regularly. Local vendors sell only food approved by conservation bodies, and awareness boards guide visitors on how to feed the turtles without causing harm. 'We take care of their health, make sure the pond stays clean, and add fresh sand to their island during the summer months,' Pathak told the newspaper. 'This isn't just about religion anymore — it's about responsibility.' Future plans in the works The temple authorities are planning new features, including observation decks, educational displays for children, and improved waste disposal systems. They also hope to start research to better understand the turtles' evolving habits. For now, the cheese-hungry turtles remain a beloved sight in Kanpur. Each week, as the faithful arrive with their offerings, the pond turns into a unique blend of devotion and biodiversity — where ancient rituals and modern conservation come together, one paneer cube at a time.
India Today
28-04-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
2025 BYD Seal price starts at Rs 41 lakh, get complete details here
Electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD India, a subsidiary of BYD, has announced the pricing for the 2025 Model Year (MY) BYD SEAL. Prices start at Rs 41 lakh (ex-showroom, India).ModelBattery Capacity Price (ex-showroom)BYD SEAL Dynamic (RWD)61.44kWhRs 41,00,000BYD SEAL Premium (RWD)82.56kWhRs 45,70,000BYD SEAL Performance (AWD)82.56kWhRs 53,15,000Following its debut in March 2024, the 2025 BYD SEAL comes with key enhancements aimed at improving driving dynamics, cabin comfort, connectivity, and technology. advertisementAccording to the company, one of the highlights of the updated BYD SEAL is the adoption of a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) low-voltage battery (LVB), offering significant advantages such as being six times lighter than conventional batteries, five times better in self-discharge rates, and a lifespan of up to 15 the sedan gains a power sunshade, a new silver-plated dimming canopy for a more premium cabin ambience, and an upgraded air-conditioning system featuring a larger compressor and enhanced air purification comfort sees a major upgrade with the intelligent damping system, Disus-C, which dynamically adjusts suspension settings to balance ride comfort and handling. Additionally, the Premium variant now features Frequency Selective Dampers (FSD), previously exclusive to the Performance model, enhancing road adaptability and ride also gets a boost, with all 2025 BYD SEAL models now supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android on the launch, Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles (EPV) Business at BYD India, said, 'The BYD SEAL has struck a meaningful chord with Indian customers. With the MY 2025 edition, we've focused on refining key aspects that matter most — ride comfort, cabin experience, and smart convenience.'BYD India currently offers four models in its passenger vehicle lineup — the newly launched BYD Sealion 7, BYD eMAX 7, BYD Seal, and BYD Atto 3 — and operates through a dealership network of 40 outlets across the country. Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine
