Wadhwan city in Gujarat is set to host the Wadhwan City Bird Atlas 2026 from June 11, marking a major milestone in citizen science-led biodiversity documentation. Led by Ahmedabad University, the initiative is the first bird atlas project in the Saurashtra region and only the second of its kind in Gujarat. The programme aims to bring together policymakers, bird experts, researchers, and citizens to contribute towards a comprehensive understanding of the region’s avian diversity.
Organised under the theme “Citizen Science for Nature, Knowledge for Conservation,” the project seeks to build an extensive database of bird species found across Wadhwan City. Beyond scientific documentation, the initiative also aims to encourage public participation in conservation efforts by involving citizens directly in data collection and monitoring activities.
The inaugural day will focus on the official launch of the atlas and an orientation programme for participants. Registration will take place between 4:30 pm and 5:00 pm, followed by the inauguration ceremony from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The event will begin with a welcome address by organiser Devvratsinh Mori, while a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony will formally mark the commencement of the project.
Several prominent leaders and policymakers from Gujarat are expected to attend the inauguration. Shri Arjunbhai Modhwala, Cabinet Minister for Forest and Environment, Government of Gujarat, will grace the event as the Chief Guest.
He will be joined by Shri Jagdishbhai Makwana, MLA of Wadhwan Constituency and Deputy Chief Whip of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, along with Shri Bhavanisinhji Mori, former Member of the State Board for Wildlife and former Wildlife Warden of Surendranagar District.
A series of technical sessions scheduled from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm will equip participants with the skills required for field surveys and scientific data collection. These expert-led discussions will cover bird identification, survey methodologies, and data management practices that are essential to the success of the Bird Atlas project.
Renowned birder Prasad Ganpule will conduct a session on bird identification in the Saurashtra landscape, while Divin Venu will introduce participants to eBird, one of the world's leading bird-monitoring platforms. The session will highlight how systematic digital data entry can enhance the accuracy and value of citizen-generated observations.
The technical programme will conclude with a presentation by Dr. Jitesh Jhawar titled “Defining the Skeleton.” His session will provide a detailed overview of the WCBA framework, including survey methodologies, grid assignments, and operational protocols, offering participants a clear roadmap for contributing to this landmark biodiversity conservation initiative.
