First Asian Ranger Forum: A Gathering for Nature's True Guardians
Explore the highlights of the First Asian Ranger Forum held in Guwahati, Assam, celebrating the true guardians of Asia's natural heritage. Discover the Guwahati Declaration, its impact on the upcoming 10th IRF World Ranger Congress, and the significant awards presented during this monumental event.
Introduction:
The First Asian Ranger Forum, held in Guwahati, Assam, from December 5-8, 2023, brought together over 180 participants from 20 countries. Maharashtra Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar emphasized the crucial role rangers play as the true guardians of Asia's natural heritage.
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| First Asian Ranger Forum started in Guwahati, Assam |
Guwahati Declaration: A Pledge for Nature Conservation
The Guwahati Declaration, to be announced by rangers from 20 countries on December 8, focuses on the vital role of rangers in nature conservation. It will be incorporated into the 10th IRF World Ranger Congress in October 2024, emphasizing inclusivity, diversity, and recommendations to support and empower Asian rangers.
Organizers and Collaborators: A Unified Effort
The event, organized by the state forest department, Aranyak, IRF, RFA, and URSA, in collaboration with other NGO partners, showcases a united effort towards effective nature conservation.
Honoring Outstanding Contributions
The Asian laureates of the IUCN WCPA International Ranger Awards, including teams from Bhutan, Malaysia, and the Philippines, will be honored for their outstanding contributions to the protection and conservation of natural heritage. Additionally, the Exploring Womanhood Foundation Forest Durga Conservation Award 2023 will be presented to women rangers from Gujarat, Meghalaya, and Rajasthan.
International Ranger Federation: A Brief Overview
Established on July 31, 1992, in the Peak District National Park, UK, the International Ranger Federation (IRF) celebrates World Ranger Day on July 31. The theme for the 2023 World Ranger Day is '30 by 30,' aligning with the 2022 United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15).
Exploring the Forum Experience
Inaugural Ceremony: Unveiling the Vision
The forum's inaugural ceremony set the tone for the event, with leaders expressing the significance of ranger-led conservation efforts.
Panel Discussions: Sharing Insights and Recommendations
Diverse panel discussions covered topics ranging from the role of rangers in biodiversity conservation to promoting inclusivity and diversity within the ranger workforce.
Awards Ceremony: Recognizing Excellence
The awards ceremony highlighted exceptional achievements, fostering motivation among rangers to continue their commendable work.
Interactive Workshops: Building Skills and Collaboration
The forum included hands-on workshops, enhancing participants' skills and fostering collaboration among rangers and communities.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the Guwahati Declaration? The Guwahati Declaration holds immense significance as it emphasizes the vital role of rangers in nature conservation, promotes inclusivity and diversity, and provides recommendations to empower Asian rangers in carrying out their duties effectively.
Q: How does the Guwahati Declaration impact the 10th IRF World Ranger Congress? The Guwahati Declaration will be included in the upcoming 10th IRF World Ranger Congress in 2024, contributing to the global discourse on nature conservation and ranger empowerment.
Q: Who organizes the First Asian Ranger Forum, and who are the collaborators? The event is organized by the state forest department, Aranyak, IRF, RFA, and URSA, in collaboration with other NGO partners, showcasing a unified effort for effective nature conservation.
Q: What awards are presented during the forum? The forum honors Asian laureates with the IUCN WCPA International Ranger Awards and presents the Exploring Womanhood Foundation Forest Durga Conservation Award 2023 to women rangers from specific regions.
Q: When was the International Ranger Federation established, and what is its significance? Established on July 31, 1992, in the Peak District National Park, UK, the International Ranger Federation plays a crucial role in celebrating World Ranger Day and advocating for nature conservation globally.
Q: How does the forum contribute to promoting diversity and inclusivity within the ranger workforce? The forum's manifesto and discussions emphasize the importance of promoting inclusivity and diversity within the ranger workforce, fostering an environment that supports and empowers rangers from diverse backgrounds.
Conclusion:
The First Asian Ranger Forum in Guwahati, Assam, stands as a milestone in the global conservation effort. The Guwahati Declaration, awards, and collaborative efforts showcased during the event reflect a shared commitment to preserving Asia's natural heritage. As rangers continue their vital role, the forum's impact resonates in the ongoing narrative of nature conservation.
