The Beginning
In 1988, a group of passionate students in Vallabh Vidyanagar came together with a shared desire — to understand nature, protect wildlife, and inspire others to care. What began as informal weekend nature walks and awareness sessions soon took shape as the Vidyanagar Nature Club, a small but spirited collective determined to make a difference.
Over the years, those early efforts grew in depth and impact. The club evolved into the Voluntary Nature Conservancy (VNC), carrying forward the same volunteer-driven energy while expanding its reach across Western India. From rescuing snakes and restoring habitats to conducting environmental education programs and scientific research, VNC has stayed firmly rooted in its belief that true conservation begins with awareness and action at the grassroots level.
“When people understand nature, they begin to protect it. Awareness is the seed from which conservation grows.”
Founding Philosophy of VNCMore than three decades later, VNC continues to nurture that founding spirit — empowering individuals, guiding communities, and influencing policy to create a balanced coexistence between people and nature. What started as a student initiative has become a lifelong movement, proving that small actions, when shared with purpose, can grow into lasting change.
