Kumily grama panchayat president MM Varghese is inaugurating a conclave on man-animal conflict at the Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Thekkady on Sunday. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Journalists, writers and environmentalists discuss the problems of nature conservation and the role of responsible communication in solving these problems
A conclave of media, literature and environmentalists held at the Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Idukki has called for an in-depth scientific study to identify the root causes of the growing human-animal conflict in the state.
The event was organized by PTR East division as part of its platinum jubilee celebrations and was held at Bamboo Grove in Thekkady on Sunday. Journalists, writers and environmentalists gathered to discuss conservation issues and the role of responsible communication in addressing these issues.
Kumily grama panchayat president MM Varghese inaugurated the conclave. In his speech, he emphasized the growing anxiety of people living on the borders of forested areas.
Writer and journalist MJ Babu said that “People have lived in forest settlements for generations without significant conflict. However, in recent years there has been an increase in incidents causing loss of life and property. An in-depth study is necessary to find the real causes of this shift. While conservation activities of PTR have helped mitigate some of the problems,” said Mr. Babu.
The keynote address was delivered by R. Lakshmi, Assistant Field Director, PTR West Division. Boby Abraham, former State President of Kerala Union of Working Journalists (KUWJ) presided over the function. Novelist S. Pushpamma, Idukki Press Club President Vinod Kannoli, MJ Babu, Anil Vallikkode, Varghese C. Thomas, PK Haris, Shaji Kurisumood among others participated in the conclave.
During the conclave, seven books were published under the banner of ‘Mozhi’, a prominent writers’ collective.
Published – 16 Feb 2026 21:20 IST