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Save Goraiya

The Goraiya, or the Indian house sparrow, is a beloved bird in Indian culture, symbolizing harmony with nature and often associated with childhood memories in rural and urban homes alike. However, in recent years, the sight of this small, chirping companion has become increasingly rare, sparking concern and leading to campaigns aimed at its conservation. The decline in the Goraiya population is alarming, largely due to changes in urban landscapes, the overuse of pesticides, and a general lack of green spaces.

Causes of Decline

One of the primary causes of the Goraiya’s decline is habitat loss. As cities expand, the greenery that once provided shelter and food for these birds is replaced by concrete structures, leaving little room for small wildlife to thrive. Additionally, modern buildings lack the open spaces, eaves, and crevices that Goraiyas used to nest in. The scarcity of plants and trees that provide food, such as seeds and insects, further limits their survival in urban areas.

Another major factor is the excessive use of chemical pesticides and insecticides in agriculture. These chemicals drastically reduce the availability of insects, which are a crucial part of the sparrow’s diet, especially for chicks. Without this food source, Goraiyas struggle to reproduce and raise their young, contributing to a steady decline in their numbers. The rise of radiation from cell towers has also been suggested as a possible factor, though more research is needed to confirm its impact.

Conservation Efforts

Efforts to save the Goraiya have gained momentum as people become more aware of the ecological balance that these birds help maintain. Conservationists and community groups are encouraging people to create bird-friendly environments, even in small urban spaces. This can be done by placing bird feeders with grains like millet or rice, setting up small bird baths, and planting native plants that attract insects. Such actions provide Goraiyas with the essential resources they need for survival and reproduction.

Some organizations and local governments have also initiated programs to increase awareness, especially among children and young people, about the importance of conserving these small birds. Schools are increasingly involved in these efforts, with activities like making DIY bird feeders, participating in sparrow counts, and conducting awareness workshops. Such programs foster a sense of responsibility and encourage younger generations to take an active role in conservation.

What You Can Do to Help

Saving the Goraiya requires individual and community action. Start by setting up a small feeder in your garden, balcony, or rooftop. Even a small bowl of water can help provide relief to these birds, especially during the hot summer months. Avoid using chemical pesticides in your garden, as they harm the insects Goraiyas rely on. Instead, consider organic alternatives that protect both your plants and the local wildlife. If possible, plant native trees and shrubs that provide food and nesting spaces.

By taking small yet impactful actions, communities can help bring back the Goraiya, restoring the harmony these birds represent. Saving the Goraiya is about more than conserving a single species; it’s a step towards a more balanced ecosystem and a reminder of the bond humans share with nature. With collective effort and a bit of mindfulness, we can hope to see the Goraiya return to our homes, gardens, and daily lives.

Sparrow Day is celebrated every year on 20 March to conserve this bird and increase awareness about it.

The importance of this day increases in view of the rapid decline in the numbers of this species. At present, the house sparrow species is almost on the verge of extinction. The number of sparrows has declined rapidly in the last few years due to increasing use of pesticides, change in building construction style and loss of gardens from homes. Apart from this, radiation from mobile and TV towers is also the main reason for the decline in their numbers.