Baramulla, Sept 02: In a step toward safeguarding the habitat of the endangered Kashmir Markhor, the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Protection (DWP), Jammu & Kashmir, and the Astral Foundation hosted a crucial Sensitization Workshop for nature guides in Kazinag National Park.
Kazinag National Park is home to the largest population of the majestic Kashmir Markhor, the world’s largest wild goat. However, this unique species faces numerous threats, including poaching, deforestation, and overgrazing by migratory livestock, especially in the sensitive areas of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.
Nature guides, who play a pivotal role in wildlife tourism across the nation, are essential for not only spotting and identifying local wildlife but also for educating tourists and local communities on wildlife conservation and management.
The workshop, titled ‘Sensitization workshop for nature guides in Kazinag NP, J&K,’ aimed to introduce and sensitize 35 newly identified nature guides to their roles and responsibilities.
It emphasized the significance of nature guides as leaders, educators, hosts, managers, and facilitators in the eco-tourism ecosystem.
Mohit Aggarwal, Head of Asian Adventures, led the daylong session held at the Nature Interpretation Centre in Limber.
He highlighted the four fundamental principles of eco-tourism: Environment, Social Structure, Traditions, and Cultural Sustainability.
Mohit stressed that effective management aligned with these principles would be instrumental in promoting and developing eco-tourism in the region.
The workshop left participants enthusiastic about adopting and promoting sustainable wildlife viewing practices. They expressed a desire for more advanced workshops, aspiring to become members of the guild of conservation guides capable of leading local communities in wildlife conservation efforts.
The event witnessed the presence of key figures in wildlife conservation, including Mr. Altaf Kounsar Kaul (Range officer, Baramulla, DWP), Mr. Riyaz Ahmad Lone (Block Forest officer, Limber Wildlife Sanctuary), Mr. Ghulam Mohammad Zaroo (Block Forest officer, Headquarter Baramulla), Mr. Mohit Aggarwal (Head, Asian Adventures), Mr. Sameer Khazir (Assistant Manager, Wildlife Trust of India), and Jeff Francis (Field Officer, Wildlife Trust of India).
