Md Faridul Islam, SAU

The 11th founding anniversary of Sylhet Agricultural University (SAU) and World Environment Day was celebrated as the exclusive event dedicated to Animal Rights and Biodiversity Conservation. In honor of this day, the organization's members conducted various programmes, including tree planting initiatives.

To commemorate the 11th anniversary of Pradhikar, a cake-cutting ceremony took place at 5:30 pm on Monday, June 5, in front of the Student Teacher Center at the university. Subsequently, tree planting activities were carried out at different locations on the campus, name plaques were installed on various trees, and a cleaning operation was conducted at the Shaheed Minar.

Dignitaries in attendance included Mohammad Mehdi Hasan Khan, a member of the Advisory Council of Pradhikar and the convener of the Dean's Council of the University, Professor of Microbiology Department Mahbub e Elahi, Professor Dr. Sultan Ahmed, Associate Professor of Surgery and Theriogenology Department Animesh Chandra Roy, Professor of Animal Genetics Department Dr. Mohan Mia, External Director and Professor of Parasitology Department Tilak Chandra Nath, Additional Student Counselor Dr. Rana Roy, Associate Professor of Medicine Sahidur Rahman, among others. The event was also graced by the presence of Pradhikar's executive committee members, general members, and well-wishers.

Expressing his views, Dr. Mohammad Mehdi Hasan Khan, Advisor of the authority, mentioned that the university was once known as Foxford University due to the abundance of foxes. Moreover, numerous frogs inhabited the ponds and reservoirs of the university, but it is now difficult to fathom their existence.

Stressing the importance of environmental protection for our own well-being, he highlighted the significant role played by the authority in safeguarding the environment through wildlife conservation efforts and tree planting initiatives. He also emphasized that Sylhet has experienced considerable ease in wildlife conservation thanks to the privileges bestowed upon the university. Dr. Mohammad Mehdi Hasan Khan expressed his belief that the university will continue to play a more effective role in protecting biodiversity and enhancing its reputation in the future.

Professor Mohan Mia, from the Animal Genetics Department, underscored the necessity of preserving animal rights, with the first step being the assurance of suitable habitats for animals. Unfortunately, the habitat of wild animals in our country is diminishing rapidly.

He recalled a time when monkeys roamed the streets and trees near the university, but their numbers have drastically decreased. He drew attention to a mound known as Bandartila, situated near the main gate of the university, warning that soon there may be no more monkeys left.

He appealed to the audience, stating that although the surrounding hills are government-owned, land grabbers are encroaching upon them, squandering this invaluable resource. He urged everyone to pay attention to this issue and protect these hills to ensure a safe habitat for wildlife.

Dr. Tilak Chandra Nath, the Director of External Affairs and Professor of the Parasitology Department, referred to Pradhikar as a vibrant organization. He shared his longstanding association with Pradhikar since his early days at the university, initially as a member and later as an advisor. He also mentioned the publication of a wall paper featuring articles from various national newspapers about Pradhikar.

He described Pradhikar as more than just an organization, but rather as a reflection of the university itself. Dr. Tilak Chandra Nath expressed his hope that Pradhikar, having embarked on its journey from SAU, would expand its branches to other universities in Bangladesh, ensuring that its services reach every corner of the country someday.

It is worth noting that Pradhikar commenced its journey at Sylhet Agricultural University on June 5, 2012, with the motto "Animals live, Earth lives." Since its inception, the organization's members have diligently worked to protect animal rights in the Sylhet region, achieving remarkable success.