JAMMU: As part of Wildlife Week 2026 being observed across the country from 2nd to 8th October under the theme “Connecting Habitats, Thriving Wildlife,” the J&K Wildlife Protection Department is organizing a series of events across the Union Territory with focus on protecting the natural habitats, maintaining ecological connectivity and encouraging public participation in wildlife conservation.
In this connection, a Heritage Walk was today organized along the Manda Eco-Trail through Ramnagar Wildlife Sanctuary under the theme “Walk for Wildlife, Walk for Drug Free Society.” The initiative aimed at fostering the spirit of nature and wildlife conservation, particularly among youth. The walkathon started from Hari Palace, Manda and after traversing through Kamala-Top at Manda Hills, culminated at Wildlife Complex, Manda.
Around 500 participants including students, nature enthusiasts, academicians, researchers, representatives of NGOs, fitness groups, senior citizens and officers from various departments participated.
The walkathon was flagged off by Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Ecology and Environment Department, Sheetal Nanda.
The event was attended by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & HoFF, J&K; Chief Wildlife Warden, J&K; Chairman, Pollution Control Committee, J&K; Managing Director, Forest Development Corporation; Chief Conservator of Forests, Jammu; senior officers of Forest Department and District Administration and faculty members of University.
Speaking on the occasion, the Commissioner Secretary appreciated the efforts of the Department for sensitizing the masses, especially the younger generation, towards wildlife conservation under the guidance of Chief Wildlife Warden, J&K, Suneesh Buxy. She said that initiatives like Heritage Walk help in building public awareness about the value of healthy habitats which sustain ecological balance, safeguard natural resources and contribute to long-term prosperity and well-being.
The programme was organized in collaboration with Art of Living, MOBE and Heal Foundation. It featured a warm-up session, nature trail, interactive quiz, pledge on signature walls and display of student artwork celebrating faunal diversity of J&K.
The participants were sensitized about the responsible conduct in protected areas, including avoiding single-use plastic, staying on designated trails, refraining from littering and maintaining silence to avoid disturbing wildlife. The walk concluded with a collective pledge to conserve wildlife, protect habitats and promote a drug-free society.
