“Chitampalli’s Nature School” – Nature Education Programme

Introduction:

Under the Navegaon–Nagzira Tiger Reserve, the "Chitampalli’s Nature School" Nature Education Programme has been implemented to create awareness among students of Classes 5, 6 and 7 about the environment, biodiversity and wildlife conservation.

Objectives:

• To create awareness about wildlife and the importance of forests among students, teachers and local communities.

• To encourage participation in conservation activities and develop positive attitudes towards nature.

• To provide direct experiences of nature through nature trails, wildlife observation, nature-based games, environmental activities and practical learning.

Selection of Schools:

A total of 16 Zilla Parishad schools located in the buffer zones of Bhandara and Gondia districts were selected for the programme. A total of 481 students and 16 teachers are participating in the initiative.

The schools were selected after considering their educational context, geographical conditions and opportunities for student participation.

The Chitampalli’s Nature School Nature Education Programme is being implemented during the academic period from June to April.

Inauguration of the Programme:

On 3 October 2025, the programme was formally inaugurated at M. B. Patel College, Sakoli, by Hon. MLA Nana Patole. The inauguration ceremony was attended by the Field Director and Deputy Director of Navegaon–Nagzira Tiger Reserve, Education Officers, representatives of various non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and teachers and students from the participating schools.

The programme has been implemented on the ground since October 2025. Activities are conducted every month in 16 schools with the support of 14 representatives from voluntary organisations and 31 Nature Educators (Van aadhyapak).