Visitors to Maha Kumbh 2025 will get the chance to witness a gathering of over 200 species of migratory and local birds, in a three-day International Bird Festival to be organized from Feb 16 to 18, in north Indian city of Prayagraj.
To promote environmental conservation and biodiversity, this event will offer a unique opportunity for nature lovers, ornithologists, and devotees to observe rare bird species and understand the importance of their conservation.
The International Bird Festival will not only offer the chance to view birds but also raise awareness about bird conservation through various competitions and educational activities. The festival will include photography, painting, slogan writing, debates, and quiz competitions.
Additionally, national and international ornithologists, environmentalists, and conservation experts will share their insights in technical sessions and panel discussions.
Alok Kumar Pandey, the IT Head of the Forest Department, stated that people can contact WhatsApp number 9319277004 for more details about the festival.
The main aim of this initiative is to inspire youth, nature enthusiasts, and devotees to focus on bird conservation and the protection of their natural habitats.
The government will award prizes worth a total of Rs. 21 lakhs, ranging from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 5 lakhs, to the winners of various competitions, making this event even more attractive.
During the International Bird Festival, devotees will have the opportunity to observe rare birds like the endangered Indian Skimmer, Flamingo, and Siberian Crane.
This event will also provide an opportunity for visitors to understand the importance of natural beauty and biodiversity.
Thousands of migratory birds from over 10 countries, including Siberia, Mongolia, and Afghanistan, have arrived at the banks of the Ganga-Yamuna in Prayagraj, attracting tourists with their unique flights and group migration patterns.
Arvind Kumar Yadav, DFO Prayagraj, mentioned that the festival will not only be for entertainment but will also play a crucial role in the campaign for environmental balance and biodiversity conservation.
He emphasized that bird conservation helps maintain natural disaster management and ecological balance, and such events will help sensitize people to nature.
In line with the Prayagraj Mela administration’s directive, a special eco-tourism plan has been prepared for the devotees.
They will be able to experience bird watching and learn about the importance of natural habitats. Through bird walks and nature walks with experts, devotees will have the opportunity to understand birds’ behaviour, migration journeys, and their role in the ecosystem closely.
Moreover, cultural programs, street plays, art exhibitions, and other activities will raise awareness about bird conservation and environmental balance during the Mahakumbh. The goal of this event is not just to raise awareness among devotees but also to take steps toward the conservation of natural resources for future generations.
Bird enthusiasts, researchers, scientists, and students will gain new knowledge about ornithology and conservation at the International Bird Festival. Various sessions will discuss bird migration, habitat protection, the impact of climate change, and scientific facts about their survival, an official statement said.
