Workshop in Tripura Trains Enthusiasts in Small Wild Cat Conservation and Camera Trapping
Jul 06, 2026
Agartala, Jul 6: Turning the spotlight on Tripura's lesser-known wild cats, a two-day conservation workshop concluded successfully at the Clouded Leopard National Park on July 5. The initiative, organised by the TYGER Collective, trained researchers and enthusiasts in population monitoring and camera trapping techniques to ensure the long-term survival of these elusive species.The workshop, titled ‘Small Wild Cat Ecology and Conservation in Tripura’, was conducted at the local Nature Learning Centre on July 4 and 5. It brought together a diverse group of participants, including students, PhD scholars, researchers from various academic backgrounds, forest officials, wildlife photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Reportedly, the event aimed to strengthen knowledge and build local capacity to support the conservation of the state’s smaller feline species.
Organised by the Tripura Youth For Green Ecology and Restoration (TYGER) Collective, the programme was held with collaboration and support from Dr. Giridhar Malla, the Founder of the Eastern Himalayas Marbled Cat Project. The initiative focused on creating widespread awareness regarding the ecological importance of Tripura’s small wild cats, including the clouded leopard, leopard cat, and jungle cat, alongside the threats they face and the role of scientific monitoring. The inaugural session of the workshop was attended by Siddhartha Debbarma, TFS, Director of the Sepahijala Zoological Park, and Chiranjib Debnath, Biologist at the Conservation Breeding Centre, Sepahijala Zoological Park. Moreover, Dr. S. Warson Monsang, Professor and Head of the Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology at the College of Veterinary Sciences and A.H., Agartala, and Dr. Krishnendu Das, a professor of mathematics at Women’s College, Agartala, graced the opening session.
Over the course of two days, participants attended technical sessions covering the diversity, ecology, behaviour, and conservation status of small wild cats found in the region, as well as success stories of small cat conservation in Northeast India. According to conservation biology expert Dr. Giridhar Malla, protecting forest habitats and promoting research-based conservation strategies remain vital. Special emphasis was placed on the use of camera traps as a non-invasive tool for documenting small wild cats, monitoring their populations, and generating scientific data essential for conservation planning. A major highlight of the workshop was a hands-on field session inside the Clouded Leopard National Park, where participants learned the practical aspects of camera trap installation. Under the guidance of experienced wildlife researchers, including Dr. Giridhar Malla and Hansatanu Roy, the participants selected suitable locations, installed the equipment, and discussed various field techniques. T
his field experience enabled attendees to connect classroom learning with real conservation practices and understand the practical challenges of conducting wildlife research in natural habitats. Meanwhile, the workshop encouraged detailed discussions on collaborative conservation models involving researchers, local communities, government agencies, and young conservationists in the upcoming years. Participants actively engaged in interactive sessions, exchanged ideas, and explored opportunities for future research and conservation initiatives across Tripura.The organisers expressed their gratitude to the state forest department for permitting the field visit to the Clouded Leopard National Park and allowing the participants to observe the Conservation Breeding Centre. The TYGER Collective also thanked the participants for contributing to the overall success of the programme.
