KATHMANDU: The 21st Wildlife Week bearing the slogan 'The Future of Wildlife is in Our Hand' concluded today.

At the closing ceremony, Minister for Forest and Soil Conservation, Agni Prasad Sapkota, said the week-long programme held to mark the annual event could contribute significantly in conservation of the wildlife.

Minister Sapkota further said that the role of humans – being the most conscious of the beings – could be important in enhancing the beauty of the Earth and make it a common property for all. He stressed the need for solidarity among all to conserve the biodiversity.

The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) launched varieties of programmes to celebrate the Week in all national parks and conservation areas across the country with an aim to raise awareness on wildlife conservation.

Under the week-long programme, the DNPWC imparted messages on conservation through various media outlets on April 13 and organised art competition on forest the next day. On April 16, it had organised a birth observation and awareness programme at the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and on April 18, a poem competition was held at the Central Zoo, Jawalakhel.

DNPWC Acting Director General, Dr Maheshwar Dhakal, said the conservation of the biodiversity was possible only through a joint effort.

During the function, students with outstanding performances in poem and art competitions were feted and conferred certificates. Appreciation letters were also conferred to different community forests and individuals making noteworthy contribution towards wildlife conservation.

In the 21st Wildlife Week celebrations, 14 national parks, three wildlife reserves, six conservation areas and one hunting reserve took part in hosting the programmes favourable for them, informed the Department.

The event held from April 13 to 19 was organised by DNPWC in collaboration with other partners including the Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN). The annual celebration has observed in the first week of Nepali New Year since 2053 BS (1996).