Green Pencil Foundation, in collaboration with Aranya – The Nature and Environment Society of Zakir Husain Delhi College, University of Delhi, organised a Bird Guide and Nature Walk at Sanjay Van, New Delhi, on September 20, 2026.
The two-hour nature walk was organised from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and brought together around 60 students who participated in an experiential learning session focused on birds, nature observation and the biodiversity of one of Delhi’s important green spaces.
The walk provided students with an opportunity to step outside the classroom and observe nature in its natural setting. Participants were introduced to the basics of birdwatching, including identifying birds through their appearance, calls, behaviour and habitat. The session also encouraged students to slow down, observe their surroundings and understand the ecological value of urban forests.
Mr. Ishant, Event & Public Relations Head of Aranya, was also present during the programme and interacted with the participants throughout the walk.
Learning Birding Through Observation
For many students, the walk offered a practical introduction to birding as a hobby and a form of citizen participation in nature conservation. Instead of simply learning about birds through photographs or books, participants were encouraged to observe birds directly in the field and understand how different species use their habitats.
The bird guide also explained how birdwatchers can maintain records of their observations and contribute to citizen-science initiatives. Discussions around responsible birding highlighted the importance of maintaining distance from birds, avoiding disturbance to nesting areas and respecting the natural habitat.
The students also explored the vegetation, insects and other elements of the landscape during the walk, helping them understand that an urban forest is more than just a collection of trees. It functions as a living ecosystem where plants, birds, insects and other organisms interact with one another.
Connecting Young People With Nature
The participation of 60 students made the programme an engaging learning experience for the college community. Students were encouraged to ask questions, share their observations and discuss the role that young people can play in documenting and protecting urban biodiversity.
Such nature walks can also help build a stronger connection between young people and the green spaces around them. With Delhi experiencing rapid urbanisation, opportunities to experience and understand natural ecosystems can play an important role in developing environmental awareness among students.
Speaking through the initiative, Green Pencil Foundation emphasised the importance of creating more opportunities for young people to learn directly from nature. Bird walks and nature-based activities provide students with an accessible way to develop curiosity about biodiversity while also encouraging responsible behaviour towards natural habitats.
The September 20 nature walk at Sanjay Van was another step towards bringing environmental education beyond the classroom and making nature observation a more regular part of student life.
Green Pencil Foundation continues to organise bird walks, nature education programmes, environmental workshops and experiential learning activities in collaboration with educational institutions and youth-led environment societies across Delhi-NCR.
