HEAL was invited by @ileadkolkata to mark the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, observed on 26 July, with a special programme held on 27 July 2026. The event engaged students of Ashoka Hall Girls’ Higher Secondary School through talks and panel discussions.

With around 250 students in attendance, the programme explored why mangroves matter, how the Sundarbans protect Kolkata, and why conserving these unique ecosystems is important for both people and wildlife.

HEAL’s Project Coordinator Vasudha Mishra @_v.a.s.u.d.h.a_ delivered a talk on the importance of mangroves and the vital role the Sundarbans play in protecting communities along the West Bengal coast.

This was followed by a panel discussion featuring student speakers, with HEAL’s Legal and Admin Officer Durba Mitra @shorterthanlife01 engaging the students in an insightful discussion on mangrove conservation, and the challenges facing these ecosystems.

For the next generation, understanding the mangroves is also about understanding the natural systems that protect our cities, livelihoods and future.

We are grateful to iLEAD for creating this space for young minds to learn, question and engage with the importance of mangroves.