While chairing the 4th meeting of Wildlife Board for the UT of J&K on Tuesday, the Honourable Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha said, “Integrated development of wildlife habitats should be our top priority. Our efforts must focus on strengthening ecological integrity, and conservation of priceless resources through people’s participation,” No one can deny the fact that protecting wildlife and its habitat is of utmost importance, not only for the preservation of the natural environment but also for the socio-economic development of the UT. J&K is a land of unparalleled beauty, with its snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and crystal clear lakes. However, this natural beauty is under threat due to human encroachment, overexploitation of natural resources, and climate change. It is imperative that we take swift action to protect the wildlife and its habitat in the valley. Kashmir is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the endangered Kashmir stag, also known as the hangul. Other important wildlife species in the region include the Himalayan black bear, the snow leopard, and various species of birds. The survival of these species is vital for the overall ecological balance of the region. However, the rapid expansion of human settlements and agricultural activities has led to the destruction of wildlife habitats, resulting in a decline in the population of these species, over the years. One of the major threats to wildlife is poaching. Poaching is the illegal hunting of wild animals for their meat, skin, or other body parts. Poaching not only threatens the survival of endangered species but also disrupts the ecological balance. The government must take strong measures to curb this illegal activity, including increasing penalties for poachers and improving enforcement of wildlife protection laws. Another major threat to wildlife in J&K is habitat loss. The construction of new roads, dams, and buildings has led to the destruction of forests and other natural habitats. This, in turn, has led to a decline in the population of wildlife species that depend on these habitats for their survival. The government must ensure that development activities are carried out in a sustainable manner that takes into account the impact on wildlife habitats. Climate change is also a major threat to wildlife in Kashmir. The warming of the planet has led to changes in the timing of seasonal events, such as the flowering of plants and the migration of birds. These changes can disrupt the ecological balance and negatively impact wildlife populations. The government must take measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development to mitigate the impacts of climate change on wildlife. Protecting wildlife and its habitat is crucial for the preservation of the natural environment and the socio-economic development in the UT of J&K. The government must take swift action to curb poaching, protect wildlife habitats, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. The public also has a role to play in protecting wildlife by avoiding activities that harm the environment, such as littering and illegal hunting. By working together, we can ensure that Kashmir’s natural beauty and wildlife are preserved for our future generations to come.
