Kerala, 8th September 2023 – Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) joined hands with representatives from the Fisheries Department, Forest Department, local Panchayat, and Fishers Association along with students from St. Anthony’s school to celebrate Whale sharks at the Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Samskarika Kendra Valiyathura, Thiruvananthapuram.

The inaugural event commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Sajan John, Marine Specialist at WTI, followed by a special address from Sajeev S, Asst. Engineer, Kerala Maritime Board, Valiyathura. Mr. Pradeep Kumar, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and delivered the inaugural address.

Students from St. Anthony’s school joined the event

Local fishers who have valiantly rescued and released entangled whale sharks from fishing nets were honoured for their unwavering commitment to the cause. Mr. Martin, Secretary at Valiyathura Football Academy, shared insights into the importance of marine conservation. Panchayat Councilors of Valiyathura and Beemapally wards and Mr. Ajith Shankumugham, a respected representative of the fishing community also addressed the gathering.

Mr Pradeep, IFS, DFO presenting the shield to Ashraf, a local fisherman

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Ms. Saymanti Bandyopadhyay, Assistant Manager and Officer-in-Charge of Campaigns at WTI. To leave a lasting visual impact, a mural by local artist Prithviraj was unveiled at the landing site, serving as a testament to the Wildlife Trust of India’s “Save the Whale Shark Campaign” ideals for an extended period.

A mural depicting the campaign message was created at the site

Mr. Pradeep Kumar, IFS, DFO stated that WTI in collaboration with the Forest Department, has been actively involved in various programs dedicated to the conservation of whale sharks. These efforts have yielded significant positive outcomes, particularly in the coastal regions of Kerala. In the period of 2019-20, there were numerous reports of crimes related to whale sharks, turtles, dolphins, and other marine species in this area, but these incidents have considerably decreased.

Sajan John from WTI further emphasised our mission to encourage community engagement and environmental conservation activities. The goal is to raise awareness and advocate for the protection of these magnificent creatures.

The “Save the Whale Shark Campaign” has an overarching objective of fostering conservation awareness about these remarkable creatures among marine fishermen, local communities, and students. Since 2018, this initiative in Kerala has yielded impressive results, with fishermen successfully liberating 7 Whale Sharks ensnared in the nets along the coast.