2nd semester students of B. Tech. (Agril. Engg.) from the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University (JAU), undertook an educational field visit to Ambardi Safari Park on May 31, 2025.
2nd semester students of B. Tech. (Agril. Engg.) from the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University (JAU), undertook an educational field visit to Ambardi Safari Park on May 31, 2025 as part of their course on Environmental Science and Disaster Management (VAC-I) in collaboration with the National Service Scheme (NSS). The visit provided a unique hands-on learning experience. Located along the banks of the Shetrunji River and forming an integral part of the eastern GIR forest, Ambardi Safari Park served as an ideal spot for students to explore the interconnectedness of the environment, wildlife, and conservation efforts. The field visit was expertly guided by JAU faculty members Dr. Punil Gajjar and Dr. Viral P. Joshi, enriching the students’ understanding through on-site observations and discussions.
During the visit students observed and learned about the region’s richFlora & Fauna, with opportunities to spot wildlife like the Asiatic lion, Blue Bull (Nilgai), Spotted Deer, Chinkara, and Indian Porcupine. The park is also home to a vibrant bird population, including peafowl, bee-eaters, woodpeckers, and mynas. This direct interaction with nature allowed students to gain a deeper understanding of food chains, ecological balance, and the principles of wildlife conservation.
Enriching sessions conducted by Shri Minesh Patel, Range Forest Officer (Pravasan Range)and Shri Nipulkumar Lakum, Range Forest Officer (Tulsishyam Range),Gir East Division, Dhari deepened students’ understanding of Forest Conservation, Biodiversity Conservation, Wildlife Protection, and the importance of community participation in safeguarding natural resources.
A special thanks to Shri Shivrajbhai Dhadhal from the Gujarat Forest Department, who’s engaging introduction highlighted the ecological design, wildlife management strategies, and the conservation role of Ambardi Safari Park within the larger GIR forest ecosystem.
This immersive field trip not only supplemented classroom learning with practical exposure but also inspired students to value, preserve, and protect natural ecosystems — reinforcing the critical importance of environmental stewardship in agriculture and rural development.
