Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh, 2nd Febraury 2026: In a heartening example of community-led conservation, farmers and local volunteers in Uttar Pradesh’s Maharajganj district are being recognised for their vital role in protecting the Sarus crane and its wetland habitats. A special felicitation ceremony was organised on World Wetlands Day 2026 to honour these grassroots conservation champions.

The initiative is part of WTI’s Sarus Habitat Securement Project, focused on community-based conservation of the Sarus Crane and its wetland ecosystems in the Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Division. The project is being jointly implemented by the Sohagibarwa Wildlife Division and the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), with financial support from the Sarus Sanrakshan Samiti, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

A central pillar of the project is active community engagement. Farmers, fishermen, and local volunteers, known as Sarus Mitras, play an active role in conservation efforts across agricultural and wetland landscapes. Their close connection with the land makes them uniquely positioned to monitor nests, safeguard eggs, and ensure that breeding sites remain undisturbed.

Mr. Arshad Hussain, Manager, Sarus Habitat Securement Project addressing the audience | Photo © Team WTI

To acknowledge their dedication and inspire continued participation, 35 villagers were felicitated at a ceremony held on 2 February 2026 at the premises of the Nichlaul Range. Each Sarus Mitra was presented with an umbrella, shawl, torch, and a backpack, both as a token of appreciation and as practical support for their field efforts. 

Their contributions have been substantial. During 2025–26 alone, the 35 Sarus Mitras collectively helped protect 104 eggs across 52 Sarus Crane nests. These nests were located in human-dominated landscapes such as rice paddies, wetland-agriculture margins, and wetlands within the Sohagibarwa Wildlife Division. Volunteers often guarded nests and eggs until successful hatching, demonstrating remarkable commitment and care.

Honouring the Sarus Mitras, who play a crucial role in protecting sarus crane nests and habitats in this landscape | Photo © Team WTI

The felicitation ceremony was led by Mr. Surve Niranjan Rajendra, Divisional Forest Officer, Sohagibarwa Wildlife Division. The event was also attended by Range Forest Officers from Nichlaul and Madhwaliya ranges, along with WTI staff members.

Such initiatives highlight how empowered local communities can play a decisive role in safeguarding biodiversity, ensuring that wetlands and their inhabitants continue to thrive for generations to come.