Reyaz Rashid
Srinagar,29 April 2024:In an effort to address the escalating issue of human-wildlife conflicts in the Kashmir region, the Department of Wildlife Protection, UT of J&K, has launched a comprehensive training program.
The initiative, spearheaded by Mr. Sarvesh Rai, IFS, aims to equip frontline staff with the necessary skills to effectively mitigate these conflicts.The inaugural ceremony, held at the Nature Interpretation Center of Dachigam National Park, marked the commencement of a week-long workshop. Shri T. Rabi Kumar, IFS,
Additional Principal Chief Conservation of Forests, Kashmir,Sh. T. Rabi Kumar graced the event as the Chief Guest. Dignitaries from various organizations, including Divisional Forest Officers, Deputy Directors of Forest Protection Force, and Wildlife Wardens, were also present.
Mr. Rashid Yahya Naquash, DCF, Regional Wildlife Warden, HQs, UT of Jammu and Kashmir, provided insights into the historical data and significance of the training. Pradeepchandra Wahule, IFS, Regional Wildlife Warden, Kashmir, emphasized the importance of enhancing technical skills to address wildlife issues prevalent in the valley.
Addressing the audience, Chief Guest Sh. T. Rabi Kumar, IFS, highlighted practical strategies for effective conflict resolution and stressed the need for similar programs in the future.
He expressed his satisfaction and congratulated the organisers. He gave an overview of practical strategies to be employed for effective conflict control pertaining to wildlife and stressed on conducting such type of programmes in near future as well.
The Welcome address was delivered by Shri Pervaiz Ahmed Wani, DCF, Wildlife Warden, Central who welcomed all the dignitaries/ guests and participant trainees.
Dr. Mohsin Ali Gazi, MVSc, Veterinary Officer, Department of Wildlife Protection, extended the formal vote of thanks.The technical sessions commenced on the first day, focusing on key areas such as an overview of human-wildlife conflicts in Kashmir, behavioral patterns of leopards and bears, and conflict resolution strategies.
Experts from Himachal Pradesh shared valuable insights, laying the foundation for an enriching and impactful training program.With a dedicated focus on enhancing knowledge and skills, this workshop promises to play a pivotal role in mitigating human-wildlife conflicts and fostering harmony between communities and wildlife in the Kashmir region.
Wardens, President, National Society & Water Resources, Wetlands &. Forests, J&K ,Executive Director, WCF, Head. Wildlife SOS, Chairman, SRDE and the Project Head, Wild Life Trust of India. Besides the special invitees, the panel of national experts from Himachal Pradesh dealing with Man Wildlife Conflict headed by Mr. Ashish Dasgupta, Ex-Member State Board for Wildlife(HP) and Honourary Wildlife Warden for the State of HP and his team members Mr. Rajive Solomon, Mr. Rao Talha Farhat and Mr. Syed Ali Bin Hadi and trainees from Forest Territorial, Forest Protection Force and Department of Wildlife Protection were present during the event.