Ganga Darpan Centre in Varanasi promotes biodiversity edu, conservation

Time of India

20-05-2025

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Varanasi: The Ganga Darpan interpretation centre, located at Sarnath's forest department campus, is becoming a hub for
biodiversity education
. Developed by the
Wildlife Institute of India
under the
Namami Gange project
, the centre features a 3D model of the Ganga River showcasing its diverse wildlife, including dolphins, crocodiles, and turtles.
With over 62 species of birds on display, the centre has attracted more than 20,000 visitors, offering workshops, educational sessions, and programs that promote river conservation and civic responsibility.
The Ganga Darpan Interpretation Centre in Sarnath symbolises cultural reflection, scientific understanding, and ecological conservation for the Ganga River. Established in 2019, the centre aims to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote responsibility towards the Ganga river system.
It highlights the river's significance in people's lives since ancient times and seeks to shift perceptions of the Ganga from a polluted river to one appreciated for its natural beauty and aesthetic value.
The
Ganga Darpan centre
's 3D model showcases the river's aquatic life, highlighting dolphins, crocodiles, turtles, skimmers, storks, and otters that maintain the river's ecological balance. The centre is also a haven for birdwatchers, with around 62 species reported, including the Grey Hornbill, White-throated Kingfisher, Asian Cuckoo, and Indian Peafowl, among others.
The presence of diverse tree species attracts a variety of birds to the centre.
In Ganga Darpan, the entire journey of the Ganga, including major pilgrimage sites, rivers, cities, and protected areas like Gangotri National Park and Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, is displayed through 3D. A panel showcases the historical and cultural significance of the Ganges during empires from the Mauryas to the Mughals, with references to Ain-i-Akbari and Baburnama.
QR codes for different topics provide all the information, and an interactive kiosk offers detailed information about the river's heritage and biodiversity. Additionally, a panel displays the historical and cultural significance of the Ganga during empires from the Mauryas to the Mughals, with references to Ain-i-Akbari and Baburnama.