The inaugural State Dragonfly Festival, named Thumbimahotsavam 2020, is set to take place in Kerala, a collaborative endeavour by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-India State unit and Society for Odonate Studies (SOS). This pioneering move aims to educate the public and draw attention to the conservation of dragonflies and damselflies, collectively known as odonates, and their environments.
About the Society for Odonate Studies (SOS)
The SOS is a non-profit and non-political organisation dedicated to spreading knowledge about the insect classification of Odonata, which includes dragonflies and damselflies. In addition to creating awareness, SOS actively engages in scientific studies aimed at conserving these species and their natural habitats.
The National Dragonfly Festival: An Overview
Thumbimahotsavam 2020 forms part of the National Dragonfly Festival – an initiative by WWF India, Bombay Natural History Society, and the Indian Dragonfly Society. The third iteration of the National Dragonfly Festival occurred online in August 2020 due to the pandemic restrictions.
This festival shines a spotlight on the significance of dragonflies and damselflies, emphasizing the urgent need for their preservation. Dragonflies, in particular, serve as crucial bio-indicators, providing insights into the ecological wellbeing of a region.
Activities and Events at the Festival
The Dragonfly Festival promises an enriching schedule replete with various activities including webinars, competitions, and training sessions for resource persons. With Covid-19 restrictions in place, the event stands as a unique chance to encourage individuals to embark on citizen science projects right from the comfort of their backyards.
Target Audience for the Festival
The festival aims to engage diverse groups of people. Among those being targeted are zoology educators, members of biodiversity management committees, eco-clubs, Forest Department personnel, and individuals involved in ecotourism activities. The goal is to tap into these groups’ inherent interest in ecology, fostering a keen sense of appreciation for dragonflies and damselflies.
The State Dragonfly Festival represents a major milestone in promoting conservation and ecological awareness. Through initiatives like Thumbimahotsavam 2020, it is hoped there will be a broader recognition of the importance of these often overlooked species, leading to more concerted efforts towards preserving them and their habitats.
