Bodoland University observes International Primate Day

KOKRAJHAR, September 3, 2026 — The Centre for Wildlife Research & Biodiversity Conservation (CWRBC), Bodoland University, observed International Primate Day on Tuesday at the university’s Department of Zoology in Kokrajhar, highlighting the need for greater awareness and conservation of primate species.

International Primate Day, established by the UK-based Animal Defenders International (ADI), has been observed since 2005 to raise awareness about threats to primates, including habitat loss, poaching, the illegal pet trade and animal testing, while promoting conservation efforts worldwide.

Dr Dilip Chetry, Director and Head of the Primate Research & Conservation Division at Aaranyak, Vice-Chairman of the IUCN SSC Primate Specialist Group, South Asia Section, and Executive Member of the IUCN Primate Specialist Group’s Small Ape Section, attended the programme as the resource person.

The session was moderated by Deep Smita Nath, a PhD scholar in the Department of Zoology, and was attended by students and research scholars of Bodoland University.

Prof Hilloljyoti Singha, Director of CWRBC, delivered the welcome address and spoke about the significance of the day, besides introducing Dr Chetry and his work in primate research and conservation.

In his lecture, Dr Chetry said that nine of the world’s 535 recognised primate species are found in Assam. He highlighted the western hoolock gibbon, India’s only ape species, as one of the state’s important primates.

He also stressed the importance of conserving the golden langur, an endemic and endangered species regarded as a symbol of pride in the Bodoland Territorial Region. He said fragmented forest habitats need to be connected to ensure the long-term survival of the species, noting that canopy bridges can serve only as temporary and immediate alternatives.

Dr Chetry also emphasised the importance of community participation in wildlife conservation, particularly in protecting primate habitats and populations.

He interacted with the students and scholars during the programme and shared experiences from his own life to motivate the audience towards wildlife research and conservation.