Vihang Gujarat

‘VIHANG’ was a Gujarati Quarterly newsletter started in 1998 focusing on Birdlife of Gujarat and related conservation science. It was published by ‘Vihang Research Foundation’ and edited by Dr. Bakul Trivedi.

Two other nature-related newsletter in the past were, ‘Prakruti’ – published and edited by late Sh. Harinarayan Aachary and ‘Chatak’ – published by WWF, Rajkot branch and edited by Sh. Lalsinhbhai Raol,
which made substantial impact in the society with regard to importance of nature, its conservation and peoples participation. Being in Gujarati,’Vihang’ received broad-based participation from all over the State. It was a kind of
revelation and the Common man of Gujarat state started contributing his/her birding notes. A large birdwatcher fraternity of the State surfaced, and active communication was established amongst nature lovers of Gujarat state. A database
regarding birdlife of the State started building up.

‘Vihang’ got moral support, regular articles, and guidance when required from two of the greatest naturalists of our times, Sh. Lavkumar Khachar and Sh. Lalsinhbhai Raol.

Many additions to the bird checklist of Gujarat were published in Vihang. ‘Vihang’ not only published well compiled and studied articles from learned naturalists and ornithologists but also carried birding reports from amateurs and
nature lovers. Average citizens could easily connect with it and, at the same time, ‘Vihang’ made its regular presence in the reference lists of research papers.

Sh. Nadita Muni, Sh. Ashok Mashru, Dr. Piyush Patel and Dr. Maulik Varu assisted in the task in the capacity of board members.

Till its discontinuation in 2012, almost 50 issues of the newsletter were published.