Gujarat Activates Karuna Abhiyan Ahead Of Uttarayan

The Gujarat government has intensified wildlife protection measures ahead of the Uttarayan festival, as thousands of kites are set to fill the skies across the state. With injuries to birds and animals a recurring concern during the celebrations, the administration has rolled out extensive emergency arrangements under the Karuna Abhiyan initiative to mitigate harm caused by sharp kite strings.

High-Level Review of Preparedness

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, along with State Forests and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia, visited the Wildlife Care Centre in Ahmedabad to review emergency preparedness. The visit focused on assessing medical readiness, coordination mechanisms, and response capacity as kite flying peaks during the two-day festival.

Statewide Deployment for Wildlife Rescue

Under Karuna Abhiyan, the state has mobilised a specialised force of 728 veterinarians and 8,620 trained volunteers across Gujarat. These teams will be responsible for rescuing injured birds and animals, transporting them safely, and providing immediate treatment. To support these efforts, 1,036 treatment and collection centres have been made fully operational, ensuring coverage across urban and rural areas where kite-related injuries are commonly reported.

Public Participation and Digital Support

The government has encouraged citizen participation by enabling easy access to rescue services. Residents can obtain real-time information on nearby bird treatment centres by sending a message to a dedicated WhatsApp number. This digital integration is aimed at reducing response time and ensuring that injured wildlife receives prompt medical attention during the festival period.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Uttarayan is celebrated in Gujarat during the Makar Sankranti period.
• Karuna Abhiyan is a Gujarat initiative for animal and bird welfare.
• Kite strings, especially synthetic ones, pose serious risks to birds.
• Wildlife rescue operations involve veterinarians and trained volunteers.

Commitment to Humane Celebrations

Officials said the large-scale mobilisation reflects the state’s commitment to balancing cultural traditions with environmental responsibility. By strengthening rescue infrastructure and promoting public awareness, Gujarat aims to reduce wildlife casualties during Uttarayan while reinforcing humane and eco-sensitive festive practices across the state.