Bhubaneswar: Nandankanan Zoological Park (NZP) in the Odisha capital here today celebrated the International Tiger Day 2026 with a series of educational, awareness and conservation-oriented programmes aimed at promoting tiger conservation and inspiring public participation in wildlife protection.

Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia graced the event as the chief guest.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister said that International Tiger Day serves as an important platform to strengthen public awareness and encourage collective action for the conservation of tigers and their habitats. He emphasised that through education, community participation and conservation initiatives, Nandankanan continues to promote the message of harmonious coexistence between people and wildlife.

As part of the celebration, a signature campaign and tiger conservation pledge were launched, encouraging visitors to reaffirm their commitment towards protecting India's national animal and its habitat. The zoo authorities also launched the "1Q–1A–1P" (One Question–One Answer–One Prize) mobile awareness campaign, an innovative outreach initiative designed to engage the public through interactive conservation quizzes and rewards.

In recognition of their dedicated service towards wildlife conservation, the tiger keepers of Nandankanan were felicitated for their outstanding contribution to the care, management and conservation of tigers in captivity. Winners of the International Tiger Day Sit & Draw Competition were also honoured during the programme.

The day-long celebration featured a keeper's talk on tiger care and conservation, storytelling sessions for children, the mini zoo keeper programme, which offered students hands-on learning experiences on tiger biology, behaviour and conservation, and an expert talk on tiger conservation. A Nukkad Natak performed by the zoo volunteers effectively conveyed the message of tiger conservation to visitors. Specially designed tiger-themed selfie points also attracted visitors, encouraging them to spread awareness on tiger conservation through social media.

The programme was attended by PCCF (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden Prem Kumar Jha, Director, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Sanath Kumar and Deputy Director, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Pradeep Mirase, along with students, wildlife enthusiasts, zoo visitors and conservation professionals.