On 20 December 2013, at its 68th session, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed 3 March, the day of signature of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), as UN World Wildlife Day to celebrate and raise awareness of the world’s wild animals and plants.

On March 3, 2026, World Wildlife Day carries the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.”

This theme highlights the value of plant biodiversity. It supports human health and traditional medicine. It also strengthens local economies. Moreover, it warns against overharvesting, climate change, and habitat loss. Therefore, it calls for active conservation and sustainable use.

Focus:
First,  shift attention from popular animal conservation. Instead, we highlight the critical importance of plants in daily life and medicine.

Significance:
Moreover, many plant species support remedies and major industries. However, several of these valuable plants are now endangered.

Action:
Therefore, all must promote sustainable use. At the same time, we should protect our plant-based heritage for future generations.

Official Resources:
In addition, the United Nations and World Wildlife Day offer toolkits and organize virtual events. These resources help people understand and support the theme effectively.

                       LEARNING FROM HOME/WITHOUT CLASSES/BASICS                                                                                          

                                                           INDIA’S WILDLIFE

India has four biodiversity hot-spots among the 34 biodiversity hot-spots of the world. They are- Western Ghats, Eastern Himalayas, and Indo-Burma, Sundaland.

India is home of about 172 threatened spices – Asian Elephant, Asian Lion, Bengal Tiger, Mugger Crocodile, Rhinoceros etc.

About 1300 species of birds are found in India among these 42 are endemic. Some of the common Indian birds are- Ringed Parrot, Green Bee Eater, Indian Roller, Koel, Blue Kingfisher, Laughing Dove.

Royal Bengal Tiger and the Peacock are the National animal and National Bird of India respectively.

Ganges river dolphin is the national aquatic animal .

Some of the common trees found in India are- Neem, Banyan, Peepal, Audumbar, and Bamboo.