Forest Guard’s Five-Year Effort Documents 280 Plant Species in Daranghati Sanctuary
Shimla, October 9: A forest guard’s passion for nature and years of fieldwork have culminated in a significant contribution to biodiversity documentation, with the release of *Flora of Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary*, authored by Shailendra Mandrayak, during the closing ceremony of Wildlife Week 2026 at Gaiety Theatre, Shimla.
The book documents around **280 plant species** found in Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary under the Wildlife Division Sarahan. Mandrayak spent five to six years conducting field studies, observing plants, identifying species and documenting the sanctuary’s rich botanical diversity.
Describing the publication as a collective achievement, Mandrayak credited his colleagues and senior officers for their guidance and support. He said his greatest satisfaction would be knowing that the book helped even one student, researcher or forest worker understand the region’s flora better.
The initiative highlights the contribution frontline forest personnel can make to scientific research and conservation by combining field experience with systematic documentation. The book is expected to serve as a useful reference for students, researchers and forest staff working on biodiversity conservation.
Several other publications were also released during the ceremony, including a field guide on the investigation and prosecution of forest and wildlife offences; a handbook on simplified procedures for physicochemical analysis of water samples; a publication on the ecology and recovery of critically endangered vulture species at Pong Dam; the Wildlife Division’s Annual Report 2025–26; and *Butterflies of Durgesharanya, Kangra*, authored by Lavish Garlani.
The publications cover wildlife crime investigation, scientific research, threatened species conservation and biodiversity documentation in Himachal Pradesh.
Mandrayak acknowledged the support of numerous forest officials and colleagues, including Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force Dr Sanjay Sood, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Alok Prem Nagar, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) K. Thirumal, Wildlife Circle Conservator Preeti Bhandari and other officers and staff.
The book’s release underscores the value of documenting field knowledge and recognising the role of frontline forest personnel in preserving Himachal Pradesh’s natural heritage.
Samagra Sikhsha
