SRINAGAR: The J&K Wildlife Protection Department today, organized the UT-level inaugural function of Wildlife Week 2026 at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Shalimar.
The inaugural function marked the commencement of a week-long programme dedicated to creating awareness about wildlife conservation, protection of biodiversity and preservation of the rich natural heritage of Jammu & Kashmir.
Dr. Suneesh Buxy, PCCF (Wildlife)/Chief Wildlife Warden, J&K, was among the Special Guests on the occasion. In his address, Dr. Buxy highlighted the importance of connected habitats, wildlife corridors and biodiversity conservation for maintaining healthy ecosystems and ensuring the long-term survival of wildlife. He emphasized the need for a harmonious coexistence between people and wildlife and called for collective efforts towards reducing human-wildlife conflict through awareness, scientific management and community participation.
Dr. Buxy also urged the students to become active ambassadors of environmental conservation and encouraged them to follow the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) mantra given by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, adopting environmentally responsible practices in their daily lives.
Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-K, in his address, emphasized the important role of universities in generating scientific knowledge, undertaking field-oriented research and developing human resources for wildlife and environmental conservation. He stressed the need for closer collaboration between academic institutions and the Wildlife Protection Department so that research and innovation could effectively support conservation and wildlife management.
Prashant Kumar, Administrative Member, CAT Srinagar, highlighted the broader significance of environmental and wildlife protection and stressed the importance of institutional responsibility, public awareness and adherence to the legal and regulatory framework governing conservation. He emphasized that protection of wildlife and natural ecosystems requires sustained efforts and participation from all sections of society.
Tawheed Ahmad Deva, highlighted the rich wildlife diversity of Jammu & Kashmir, the importance of protecting habitats and the need for coordinated field-level efforts for wildlife protection and management.
Dr. Khursheed Ahmad, Professor/Head, Wildlife Division, SKUAST-K, spoke about the role of scientific research and academic expertise in understanding wildlife populations, habitats and emerging conservation challenges. He emphasized the importance of evidence-based approaches, capacity building and greater interaction between researchers, field officers and students.
The addresses collectively highlighted the importance of research, education, connected habitats, wildlife corridors, institutional collaboration, community participation and scientific wildlife management instrengthening conservation efforts.
A significant feature of the inaugural function was the release of books and technical publications viz. Coffee Table Book – “Dachigam”, authored by Pervaiz Ahmad Wani, Deputy Conservator, Forests/Wildlife Warden, Central Division, Srinagar; “SOPs for Management & Mitigation of Human-Wildlife Conflict”, authored by Rashid Yahya Naqash, Regional Wildlife Warden, Headquarters; “Asian Waterbird Census”, prepared by the Wildlife Warden, Wetlands; “Checklist of Mammals of J&K”, authored by Muzafar Kidloo; “Recovery of Kashmir Musk Deer”, authored by Dr. Tanveer, WTI and “Dynamics of Man-Animal Conflict”, authored by Dr. Mohsin.
The publications, relating to wildlife conservation, wildlife management and human-wildlife conflict, provide useful documentation and knowledge resources for conservation practitioners, researchers, students and other stakeholders. These publications provided an important platform for showcasing field experience, scientific work and documentation related to the wildlife and ecosystems of Jammu & Kashmir.
The inaugural programme included screening of a wildlife documentary and jingle, a cultural presentation, inspection of stalls by the dignitaries and presentation of plants to the guests.
The department stated that a series of awareness, educational and outreach activities would be undertaken during Wildlife Week 2026 to engage students, local communities and other stakeholders and to underline the importance of wildlife, connected habitats and habitat conservation.
The J&K Wildlife Protection Department reiterated its commitment to strengthening wildlife conservation, promoting scientific knowledge, encouraging institutional collaboration and fostering greater public participation in the protection of Jammu & Kashmir’s rich wildlife and biodiversity.
Among the officers present on the occasion were Rashid Yahya Naqash, Regional Wildlife Warden, Headquarters, and Rafi Ahmad, Joint Director, Forest Protection Force, besides other officers and officials of the Forest and Wildlife departments.
The programme witnessed participation of faculty and students of SKUAST-K, Department of Zoology, University of Kashmir, various government colleges and schools of Srinagar, NGOs including Wildlife Trust of India and Wildlife Conservation Fund, besides members of the media fraternity, environmentalists, wildlife enthusiasts and ecologists.
