Rajasthan to observe ‘Godawan Diwas’ annually on May 21: Forest minister

Jaisalmer: Forest and Environment Minister of State Sanjay Sharma Thursday announced the official observance of 'Rajkiya Godawan Diwas' every year on May 21, aimed at promoting the conservation of the state bird, the Great Indian Bustard (GIB). The maiden event was organised in Jaisalmer, marking a significant step towards protecting this endangered species."Conservation of the Godawan is paramount," Sharma emphasised, revealing that GIB eggs produced through artificial insemination in Jaisalmer will no longer be sent to other states. The minister said the decision was part of the broader commitment made during last year's Budget session, where the chief minister endorsed the annual celebration of ‘Godawan Diwas'.Sharma said conservation of the GIB, locally known as Godawan, was of utmost importance and made it clear that eggs produced through artificial insemination at breeding centres in Jaisalmer would not be sent to any other state. Referring to past wildlife exchanges, he said Rajasthan had earlier refused requests for GIB eggs from other states. The minister also said chicks raised at breeding centres would soon be released into open wildlife areas after being trained to adapt to natural conditions.Currently, around 130 GIB are thriving in the wildlife region of Jaisalmer, complemented by 87 GIB housed in local breeding centers at Sudasari and Ramdevra. Sharma noted that the state's concerted efforts are yielding positive results, with GIB populations steadily increasing. The inaugural Godawan Diwas ceremony, held at Utkarsh Bhawan, brought together officials, wildlife enthusiasts, and community members, emphasizing a collaborative approach to safeguarding Rajasthan's biodiversity. During the ceremony, special statues of the Godawan were unveiled at the Sudasari Breeding Centre.