The 72nd National Wildlife Week–2026 was inaugurated at the Postgraduate Seminar Hall of St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, on October 6. The programme was organised in collaboration with the Karnataka Forest Department, Mangaluru Division, Puttur Sub-Division and Puttur Range, and the Departments of Botany and Zoology of the college.

 College Vice-Principal Dr Vijay Kumar Moleyar presided over the programme and highlighted the importance of wildlife conservation and protection of biodiversity. The programme was inaugurated by watering a sapling, symbolising the need to nurture and protect nature and biodiversity.

 Deputy Conservator of Forests, Mangaluru Division, Ravishankar urged students to actively participate in wildlife conservation initiatives and contribute to the protection of nature and wildlife. Conservator of Forests, Mangaluru Division, Praveen Kumar Shetty called upon students to refrain from causing any harm to wild animals and to respect their natural habitats.

 Assistant Conservator of Forests, Puttur Sub-Division, Subbayya, and Assistant Conservator of Forests (Trainee), Rudragauda B.V., were present. Dr. Vinayaka K.S., Assistant Professor, S.V.S. College, Bantwal, was the resource person. He spoke on the importance of wildlife conservation, environmental balance and the need to protect the environment to ensure ecological sustainability.

 Prizes were distributed to the winners of various competitions conducted as part of the Wildlife Week celebrations. Second B.Sc. students Manasa and Rachana led the prayer, while third B.Sc. student Dilshana compered the programme. Puttur Range Forest Officer Kiran welcomed the gathering and Puttur Deputy Range Forest Officer Ullas proposed the vote of thanks. Teaching and non-teaching staff and students of the college participated in the programme.