Maharashtra Forest Department Sets Wildlife Corridors as Theme for Wildlife Week 2026

The Maharashtra Forest Department has announced that Wildlife Week 2026 will focus on wildlife corridors, habitat connectivity, and human-wildlife coexistence across Maharashtra. The statewide campaign will take place from October 2 to October 8 under the official theme 'Connecting Habitats, Thriving Wildlife', moving initiatives beyond the boundaries of protected reserves.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and Head of Forest Force M Srinivasa Reddy issued written instructions regarding the initiative on Friday. The directive was addressed to all of Maharashtra's chief conservators of forests (territorial), deputy conservators of forests (territorial), and field directors of tiger reserves.

In the communication, Reddy instructed field officers to ensure that the week does not become a one-day ceremonial affair. Instead, officials are required to organise sustained programmes that highlight ecological links necessary for wildlife to move between habitats and survive over the long term.

The department has planned active outreach involving school children and local villagers across the state. Dedicated village-level programmes will educate residents on human-wildlife coexistence and provide guidance on safe behaviour during wildlife sightings.

Forest officials across all jurisdictions have also been directed to document their major events and outreach efforts throughout the week. A consolidated report detailing the week-long activities must be submitted to the department by October 12, 2026.