December 2023

30 December: Nature trail for RC School Kalyan

We hosted an immersive nature trail for 50 enthusiastic students from R.C. School, Kalyan, along with their 6 teachers and principal at Ambivli Biodiversity Park. Guided by our knowledgeable project officer, Mr. Pratik Chile, and our Naturalist Training Program participants, Mr. Rajneesh Sharma and Ms. Ritika Gavali, the students delved into the wonders of biodiversity.

27 December: Nature trail at Taloja Hills

We had the pleasure of hosting an unforgettable event at Taloja Hills, bringing joy to 26 participants, including 10 amazing adults and 16 lively children! It was a children's birthday celebration, surrounded by the beauty of nature. We kicked off the day with a delightful nature trail through the hills, allowing everyone to connect with the serenity around them. The excitement continued with a fun-filled treasure hunt activity specially crafted for the little adventurers!

26 December:Nature trail for Mulund college of commerce

We hosted an educational tour for the enthusiastic students of Mulund College of Commerce at the breathtaking Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mulund! A big shoutout to the 30 students who joined us for this immersive nature trail, led Mr. Pratik Chile. The focus was on environmental education, offering insights into the diverse flora and fauna that call this park home.

25 December: Nature trail and bird home/feeder making workshop

Our Environmental Stewardship Programme's second event was a success, with 30 eager children from Khindipada joining in. From birdwatching to crafting bird feeders, our volunteers made learning about nature a hands-on experience. Kudos to the young minds who not only discovered the world of birds but also developed cognitive skills and teamwork.

24 December: Birding trail at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mulund

What a magical Christmas Eve it was as we gathered in the heart of nature at SGNP-Mulund! Dr. Ketki Marthak led a special birding trail that drew in around 27 participants spanning all age groups. It was a full house experience, and everyone reveled in the enchantment of the great outdoors.

16 December: Volunteering event at Taloja Hills

Taloja Hill witnessed the impactful strides of 70 dedicated volunteers who united for a purposeful clean-up drive, tree guard repair, and sapling bag-making event. Together, we crafted 250 sapling bags for Portia trees, symbolizing our commitment to a sustainable future. In a testament to our collective efforts, a total of 15 kg of garbage was meticulously collected by the team, underscoring our shared responsibility for Taloja Hill's environmental well-being.

16 December: Webinar on Herpetofauna

A webinar on herpetofauna was conducted by Mr. Isaac Kehimkar. The webinar was attended by 5 participants. Mr. Isaac Kehimkar shared insights into the fascinating world of herpetofauna, shedding light on crucial species. A great learning experience for all!

10 December: Birding Trail and Trek at Taloja Hills

On the occasion of World Mountain Day, we organized a memorable trekking and avian exploration event at Taloja Hills. The expedition, led by Mr. Kevin Paul and Ms. Meenakshi Paul, attracted around 20 enthusiastic participants. The trek covered a distance of 2.75 km and spanned over a total of 3 hours.

10 December: Webinar on Birds

We organized a webinar on birds where 5 participants joined the session. The session was conducted by Dr. Ketki Marthak wherein she spotlighted important bird species, their behaviour and provided valuable information about avian biodiversity.

9 December: Environmental Stewardship Programme Inaugral function and mask making competition

We marked a significant milestone in Khindipada, Mulund, as we proudly inaugurated our Environmental Stewardship Programme alongside the enthusiastic 30 tribal children. In a heartening collaboration with the state forest department, we orchestrated a vibrant mask-making activity, fostering creativity among the children while also promoting the importance of sustainable practices.

9 December: Birding trail at Ambivli Biodiversity Park

We organized a birding trail at Ambivli biodiversity park led by Mr. Pratik Chile. Total 11 participants joined the trail including the training programme participants. The event concluded with a bird count activity which all participants enjoyed.

9 December : Webinar on Insects

A webinar on insects by Dr. V. Shubhalaxmi was organized where 18 participants joined the session. Dr. Shubhalaxmi, shared her expertise on insects in the fantastic webinar, spotlighting important insect species and their behaviors.

8 December:Webinar on Wild India

As a component of our naturalist training program, we hosted a webinar featuring Mr. Isaac Kehimkar, focusing on the wildlife of India. The webinar was open for registration to the public, and in addition to the participants of the training program, we welcomed 17 additional attendees. During the session, Mr. Kehimkar highlighted key species found in India.

1-23 December 2023: Naturalist Training Programme

We organized Naturalist training programme for 7 dedicated nature enthusiast at Ambivli Biodiversity park. In this session, participants learned about the park and its biodiversity. There were two sessions, the first of which featured a Live Nature trail at Ambivli Biodiversity Park and the second a virtual lecture on biodiversity. As the event concluded, we awarded our Naturalist with a Certificate and a Field Kit.

8 December: Nature trail for Don Bosco School Seawoods

We organized a remarkable nature trail event for Don Bosco School Seawoods at Taloja Hills, Kharghar. The event garnered active participation from 23 students and 2 teachers, bringing the total participants to 25.Amidst the picturesque Taloja Hills, the students explored the rich biodiversity, gaining valuable insights into the wonders of nature.

7 December: Clean-up Drive and Check Dam building activity for Balaji International School

A team of 68 students and 5 staff members from Balaji International School, Kalamboli, actively participated in a Clean-up Drive and Check Dam activity at Taloja Hill, Kharghar. Together, they successfully constructed a check dam and collected 20 kg of waste. A special thank you to Mr. JD Cargay for his invaluable support and guidance. In addition to these achievements, the enthusiastic group collected an additional 17 bags of garbage, showcasing their commitment to a cleaner environment.

6 December: Clean-up Drive and Check Dam building activity for Balaji International School

We spearheaded an impactful Clean-up Drive and Check Dam activity at Taloja Hill, Kharghar, for Shri Balaji International School, Kalamboli. A total of 67 students and 7 staff members from Balaji School actively participated in the event. Our Naturalist, Ms. Meenakshi Paul, and volunteer, Mr. JD Cargay, provided invaluable support and guidance throughout the activity. The efforts of the students resulted in the successful construction of a check dam and collection of 6 kg waste from the hill, contributing significantly to the preservation of Taloja Hill's natural environment.

3 December: Birding trail at Ambivli Biodiversity Prak

Led by the amazing birder Mr. Adesh Shivkar, we embarked on a birding adventure and were joined by 13 enthusiastic nature lovers. What a treat it was to witness 44 bird species in their natural habitat!

2 December: Seed Collection and sapling bag making activity at Taloja Hills

With 85 participants immersed in environmental action amidst the scenic Taloja Hills, our volunteers crafted 200 sapling bags filled with Cassia Fistula seeds. In a noteworthy initiative, they also collected seeds of Shisham, Wild Okra, Fever Nut, Bahava, along with cuttings of Vetiver and Bitter Hedge.

November 2023

26 November: Fire safety Awareness Programme

Our team hosted an insightful fire awareness program at Taloja Hill, spearheaded by Dr. Deepak Ghosh (Deputy Chief Fire Officer at Mumbai Fire Brigade) and Mr. Rupak Ghosh. Dr. Ghosh's live demonstration on using fire extinguishers was a game-changer, offering valuable insights into fire management. He also shed light on forest fires: their causes and effective strategies to tackle them. With an engaged group of 13 participants, it was a day filled with crucial knowledge-sharing and empowering tips on safeguarding ourselves and our environment from potential fire hazards.

5-26 November: Wild November Webinar Series

We organized a special Webinar series spotlighting the amazing biodiversity at Ambivli Biodiveristy park.292 Enthusiasts joined our webinars immersing in the 6 spectacular topics like Development of the park, Flora, Herpetofauna, Butterflies, Insects and Birds.

4 November: Community meeting for Taloja Hills

We hosted our inaugural community meeting for the Ecorestoration of Taloja Hill project. We proudly shared our comprehensive project plans and highlighted various avenues for 7 enthusiastic community members to get involved. A heartfelt shoutout to our dedicated volunteers, whose unwavering support and dedication are the backbone of our mission.

October 2023

28 October: Deweeding Activity at Ambivli Biodiversity Park

A team of 25 dedicated DCB employees came together for a successful deweeding activity at Ambivli Biodiversity Park, working towards the park's ecological preservation and health. Their combined efforts made a positive impact on the environment, exemplifying the power of community engagement and teamwork in safeguarding our local biodiversity.

14 October: Pathway Development Activity at SGNP

A team of 42 devoted DCB Bank staff members initiated a transformative endeavor. Their dedication to our environment and community served as a remarkable source of inspiration, as they enthusiastically engaged in the development of pathways within the picturesque Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

2-8 October: School Blog writing Competition

We hosted a blog writing competition for schools centered around the theme "Wildlife in my Backyard," drawing the participation of 17 students from rom 3 different schools across 3 different states (Karnataka, Telangana and Maharashtra)

September 2023

12 September 2023: Online Webinar on "Beyond the caterpillar"

The Department of Interdisciplinary Studies at K. M. E. Society's G. M. Momin Women's College organized an engaging online webinar for Interdisciplinary Studies students, featuring Mr. Isaac David Kehimkar as the speaker. We're delighted to announce that 54 students from F.Y.Bsc and S.Y.Bsc (Zoology & Botany) participated in this enlightening session.

9 September 2023: Mulching and Plantation Activity at SGNP

A group of 55 dedicated DCB Bank volunteers participated in a remarkable volunteering event at SGNP-Mulund. We are delighted to report that we accomplished the planting of 25 Saplings of Giant Milkweed, mulching of 4 fences, and the installation of 60 tree guards.

2 September 2023: Online Butterfly Identification Workshop

As part of Big Butterfly Month we had the honour of hosting a Butterfly Identification Workshop by the renowned Mr. Isaac Kehimkar. Around 30 dedicated butterfly enthusiast participated in the webinar.

August 2023

24 August 2023: Nature Trail for Vishwajyot International School

We had the privilege of organizing an enthralling nature trail as part of our Naturexplore initiative for Vishwajyot International School at Taloja hills, Kharghar. The event was attended by 84 enthusiastic students, along with three committed teachers and two chaperones who fully embraced the experience. Guiding this voyage of discovery were four volunteers and two program officers from our team.

14th August 2023: Monsoon Flora Walk at Ambivli Biodiversity Park

Our Monsoon Flora Walk in the park, joined by five enthusiastic participants, proved a lively exploration despite the rain-soaked trails. We discovered a diverse collection of 9-10 monsoon flora species, observed a vibrant ecosystem with birds, butterflies, and insects, and were surprised by a rare Buff Striped Keelback Snake sighting.

6th August 2023: Monsoon Flora Walk at Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Monsoon Flora walk at Sanjay Gandhi National Park was led by Dr. V. Shubhalaxmi. An enthusiastic group of 19 participants, including 2 curious kids, embarked on a journey of discovery. Together, we spotted a magnificent array of 14 unique species of Monsoon Flora. The trail also led us to the fascinating world of mushrooms, where the trail participants encountered 3-4 different types.

July 2023

23rd July, 2023: Scales & Slithers: Unveiling the wonders of herpetofauna in SGNP (Mulund)

An enthralling trail unfolded, led by the esteemed Mr. Ved More, to delve into the captivating world of reptiles and amphibians. At SGNP (Sanjay Gandhi National Park),5 participants were treated to a diverse array of herpetofauna sightings. The Indian scorpion, Indian giant Forest scorpion, juvenile Checkered keelback, 2 line supple skink, 5 line supple skink, and Indian toad were among the fascinating creatures spotted during this enriching experience. The journey was truly unforgettable!

16th July 2023: Insect Saunter at Ambivli Biodiversity Park

Amidst the refreshing monsoon rain, 19 individuals embarked on a captivating journey through the Ambivli Biodiversity Park, guided by the esteemed Dr. Amol Patwardhan. We encountered a stunning array of small creatures - from bugs and beetles to butterflies and dragonflies. Over 15 species graced the participants with their presence, showcasing the incredible diversity of wildlife that thrives within the park. The lush green beauty of Ambivli Biodiversity Park in the monsoon season was truly enchanting.

12th July 2023: Deweeding and Mulching Activity at Ambivli Biodiversity Park

We conducted a volunteer activity for DCB Bank official at our Ambivli Biodiversity Park. 30 employees attended the event. They helped in dewweding amd mulching activity at the park. They were also given information about the park's flora and fauna.

9th July: Monsoon Flora Saunter at Taloja Hill

As the monsoon season blessed the land, we embarked on an enchanting journey through the Taloja Hill Forest, to discover its hidden treasures and embrace the lush greenery that surrounds us. The Monsoon Flora Saunter allowed us to witness the incredible diversity of plant life that thrives in this ecological haven. From the towering Giant Milkweed to the graceful Peepal tree, each species captured our hearts with its unique charm. Amidst the verdant landscape, we encountered the delicate beauty of the Plain Tiger Butterfly, gracefully fluttering amidst the foliage. The adorable Pumpkin Beetle added to the magical ambiance of the trail.

2nd July: Plantation drive at SGNP

On the occasion of Van Mahotsav, we organized a successful plantation drive for DCB Bank employees at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mulund. Eleven enthusiastic volunteers actively participated in the event, collectively planting 30 saplings of diverse tree species. Their dedicated efforts contribute to the conservation of our natural heritage and the promotion of a greener future. We commend their commitment and express our gratitude for their invaluable support. Together, let's continue nurturing our planet and creating a sustainable environment.

2nd July: Plantation drive at Ambivli Biodiversity Park

On the occasion of Van Mahotsav, a celebration of trees and forests, we conducted a successful plantation drive program at Ambivli Biodiversity Park. Three enthusiastic volunteers actively participated in this meaningful initiative, dedicating their time and energy towards planting 30 saplings in our butterfly garden. Their contribution not only adds to the green cover of the park but also enhances its ecological value, providing a nurturing environment for various species of butterflies. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to these volunteers for their valuable support. Together, we take a step closer towards a greener and healthier planet.

May 2023

27th May: Nature Trail at Ambivli biodiversity park

We conducted a volunteer activity for DCB Bank official at our Ambivli Biodiversity Park. 22 employees attended the event. They helped in making seed balls, sapling bags and painted the pathway's stone edge line in the Astral garden with whitewash. They were also given information about the park's flora and fauna.

22nd May: Nature Trail at Ambivli biodiversity park

On the occasion of International Day for Biodiversity, we were honoured to welcome officials from the Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) to our Ambivali Biodiversity Park! Sixty individuals, including KDMC officials and enthusiastic volunteers attended the event. Volunteers enjoyed a nature trail and an engaging Wildlife Bingo game, celebrating and protecting the diversity of our ecosystem. This interactive activity adds a fun element to the exploration, allowing the audience to learn while having an enjoyable experience.

14th May: Sapling bag making at Taloja Hills, Kharghar

We conducted a volunteering event to Rebuild Taloja Hills ( Volunteer event for sapling bag making). Four volunteers participated in the event and assisted us with the sapling bag-making activity. They prepared 86 sapling bags, including 13 fever nut bags, 15 wild okra bags, 15 jamun bags, 25 wild banana bags, 11 soccer ball plant seed bags, and 7 pongam wild plant seeds.

14th May: Sapling bag making at SGNP, Mulund

We conducted a volunteering event of Sapling bag making at SGNP, Mulund. Seven volunteers participated in the event and assisted us with the sapling bag-making activity. Together, we made 106 sapling bags of the previously collected Combretum seeds.

13th May: Clean-up drive and sapling bag making at SGNP, Mulund

We organized an employee volunteer program for the DCB Bank Clean-up Drive and Sapling bag-making event held at SGNP, Mulund. A total of 54 enthusiastic DCB Bank employees took part in this inspiring event. Together, we collected a total of 81 kg of waste and also prepared 250 sapling bags, including 10 Gunj, 84 Touch Me Not, 96 Flame of the Forest, 38 Monkey Biscuit, and 22 Pongam bags.

7th May: Clean-up drive at SGNP, Mulund

We conducted a volunteering event of Clean-up Drive at SGNP, Mulund. A total of 8 enthusiastic individuals took part in this inspiring event. Together, they showed incredible dedication and determination as they scoured the area, picking up waste and restoring the serenity of SGNP.Total 81.3 kilograms of waste collected by the volunteers.

7th May: Seed collection drive at Taloja Hills, Kharghar

We conducted a volunteering event to Rebuild Taloja Hills (Volunteer event for seed collection). Seven volunteers participated in the event and helped us with the seed collection activity. A total of 4 wild plant seeds were collected, including Karvanada, Wild Okra, Red silk cotton tree, and Arjuna. The volunteer event lead by our Naturalist, Ms. Meenakshi Paul.

April 2023

16th April: Nature Trail at Taloja Hills, Kharghar

We had planned a volunteer activity, but unfortunately it got cancelled. Nevertheless, we decided to make the most of the day by organizing a nature walk in the beautiful Taloja hill forest. A group of 8 volunteers joined us for the trail, which was expertly guided by Supriya Maurya. During the walk, the volunteers were provided with a comprehensive overview of the region's ecology and biodiversity

9th April: Build Check Dam at Taloja Hills, Kharghar

We conducted a volunteering event to Rebuild Taloja Hills (Volunteer event for constructing check dam). Five volunteers participated in the event and helped us in constructing the stone check dam. The volunteers worked hard to collect stones and build check dams. In just two hours, they were managed to build four check dams.

2nd April: Path repair at Taloja Hills, Kharghar

We conducted a Rebuilding of Taloja Hill (Volunteering event for Pathway repair) at Taloja hills Kharghar. Eleven volunteers participated in the event and helped us in patching the uneven path. Participants took up the challenge from collecting stones to line up or even the pathway on certain elevation, they helped each other and enjoyed this event.

March 2023

24th March: Release of Taloja Field Guide at BNHS

After the fruitful completion of the Taloja Hill Forest Restoration Project (2020-2023), we created a pocket field guide to Taloja Hill Forest, which was released at BNHS Hornbill House by renowned conservationist Mr. Bittu Sahgal sir. Mr. Bittu Sahgal is the founder of Sanctuary Nature Conservation. The heart warming speech by Bittu sir. With the project's successful debut, Taloja Hill's rehabilitation, and the public's increased knowledge of the location, our goal was achieved. "For making of curd we need culture, the culture is now made by iNaturewatch, each can now make their own curd," remarked a Mr. Bittu sir hinting at the resource guide. A motley of BNHS members, iNaturewatch volunteers and well wishers attended the event.

3rd March: Valedictory Function

We celebrated World Wildlife Day with 20 students Naturalist Training Programme. We had a fantastic time celebrating World Wildlife Day with 20 enthusiastic Naturalist Training Programme participants, alongside Shri Sanjay Waghmode, ACF, and his colleagues from Alibaug Forest Department. These officials were kind enough to present our participants with certificates and field kits as a token of their appreciation. It was such a wonderful event, and we are grateful to Jyoti Nakarni for coordinating everything so beautifully in Hyde Park.ram participants and Alibaug Forest Department officials Shri Sanjay Waghmode, ACF, and his colleagues. They presented our participants with certificates and field kits as a sign of appreciation. Indeed, it was a lovely occasion. Jyoti Nakarni is thanked for coordinating the event in Hyde Park.

February 2023

4-26th February: Naturalist Training Programme

This program was carried out over four weeks. Each week, 20 individuals participated in a program that included two days of fieldwork and online classes. A trained guide was available in each field to teach the method to the participants. Participants were instructed on the various methods for collecting data on flora and fauna. Tree girth measurement, birdcall count, pitfall trap, baiting the bush, and the bark autograph method are a few examples. On the eve of World Wildlife Day, we convened the graduation ceremony for the Naturalist Training Programme participants. They were honoured by the forest department and the DCB Bank.

January 2023

20thJanuary: Volunteer Programme of Kitchen Waste Composting

On January 20th, we conducted an online volunteer training programme for Nature Club on composting kitchen waste. The training session is for the volunteers of KPMG; in total, 40 employees of KPMG attended the session, who will then teach it to the school students.

13thJanuary: Volunteering event at Taloja Hills

We held an Employee Volunteering Program for DCB Bank employees at Taloja Hills. Sixty-five employees participated in the programme and assisted with site clean-up, tree guard repair, and seed collection. Group 1 of 30 volunteers collected non-biodegradable materials from the site, such as plastic bottles and bags. They removed 20 gunny sacks of plastic garbage from the location. The second group of 25 participants repaired 40 tree guards. 10 participants in Group 3 collected seeds from wild plants such as silver spike cockscomb, coat button, wild lady finger, wild sesame, wild cotton, and fever nut.