From the peaceful mornings in villages to the hustle and bustle of cities, sparrows once filled the air with their cheerful chirps. Flocks of these tiny birds, uninvited yet welcome, created unforgettable memories. But over time, these little friends have vanished from our lives. Once abundant, the house sparrow is now a rare sight and a mystery in many places.

Sparrows are small but significant birds that play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance. They help control insect populations by feeding on various bugs and pests. Additionally, sparrows are key players in pollination and seed dispersal. Their presence enhances biodiversity, making them crucial for the health of both rural and urban ecosystems.

Read in Hindi: ओ री चिरैया..., नन्हीं सी चिड़िया..., अंगना में फिर आ जा रे...!

In India, sparrows are not just birds, they are a symbol of shared history and culture. Known by various names such as ‘Goraiya’ in Hindi, ‘Kuruvi’ in Tamil and ‘Chirya’ in Urdu, sparrows have been a part of daily life for generations. They used to fill the air with their cheerful songs, especially in villages, creating memories for many.

Despite their importance, sparrows have been disappearing at an alarming rate. Several factors contribute to this decline. The use of unleaded petrol has led to toxic compounds that harm the insects, sparrows depend on for food. Urbanization has also taken away their natural nesting spaces. Modern buildings lack the spaces sparrows need for nesting, reducing places to raise their young.

Additionally, pesticide use in agriculture has reduced the number of insects, further impacting sparrows' food supply. The increasing presence of crows and cats, along with a lack of green spaces has added to the problem. These factors, along with lifestyle changes have made it difficult for sparrows to thrive.

Amid these challenges, there are several inspiring efforts to protect sparrows and bring them back into our lives. One such initiative is the ‘Save the Sparrow’ campaign led by environmental conservationist Jagat Kinkhabwala. He emphasizes the need to balance development with environmental protection.

Another remarkable initiative is by the Koodugal Trust in Chennai. This organization has involved school children in creating sparrow nests. The children build small wooden houses, providing food and shelter for sparrows. From 2020 to 2024, the trust built over 10 thousand nests leading to a rise in sparrow numbers. Such efforts highlight the importance of involving the younger generation in conservation.

In Mysuru, the ‘Early Bird’ campaign introduces children to the world of birds. The program includes a library, activity kits and trips to villages to observe birds. These educational efforts are helping children recognize and understand the importance of sparrows and other birds in nature.

Many individuals also have contributed to this course correction. Rajya Sabha MP Brij Lal contributed significantly to sparrow conservation. He has set up 50 nests in his home, where sparrows return every year to lay their eggs. He ensures that they are fed and taken care of. His efforts were even praised by PM Narendra Modi, who highlighted the importance of such initiatives in protecting sparrows.