Mysuru: Marking World Wildlife Day, a function was organised by Forest Department at Aranya Bhavan in Ashokapuram here on Mar. 3.

The gathering also paid rich tributes to late Conservator of Forests Manikandan who was trampled to death by an elephant in the forest this day one year ago.

Hailing Manikandan as a good and efficient officer, DCF Dr. Prashanth listed out the schemes launched by Manikandan to reduce man-animal conflict.

DCF Siddramappa Chalkapure spoke on life below water indicating the preciousness of water on earth which should be preserved.

Addressing the gathering, wildlife photographer Senani opined that Wildlife Day is not a celebration but needs an introspection to preserve forest and wildlife. He opined that river-linking would disrupt natural course of rivers and spoil the marine life in individual rivers.

He contended that ever since industrial revolution commenced, deforestation was on the rise turning detrimental for wildlife. Turning sentimental, he feared that the curse of wildlife could cast a dark shadow on the younger generation of mankind.

CCF Ambadi Madhav explained the technical features which hamper the control of forest fires.

Project Tiger Director Jagathram, Zoo Executive Director Ajit M. Kulkarni, Zoo Authority Member-Secretary BP Ravi, Wildlife photographer Krupakar and others were present.