Kargil, Oct 08: Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, on Wednesday reiterated the need for collective action to preserve Ladakh’s rich biodiversity as the week-long celebration of Wildlife Week 2025 concluded with a vibrant valedictory event at Syed Mehdi Auditorium Hall, Kargil.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Dr Akhoon stressed that protecting Ladakh’s unique wildlife and fragile ecosystems is a shared responsibility, particularly for the younger generation. He lauded the efforts of the Wildlife Protection and Education Departments for jointly organising awareness programmes across schools, noting that education plays a vital role in nurturing environmental consciousness.
The CEC also called for renewed policy support, including improved equipment for wildlife protectors and a revival of compensation mechanisms for losses caused by animal-human conflict. He urged all sections of society to contribute to maintaining Ladakh’s ecological balance through sustained awareness and cooperation.
The event, organised by the Department of Wildlife Protection Division, Kargil, in collaboration with the Department of Education, Kargil, and the ROQS Team, marked the culmination of a series of week-long activities aimed at promoting wildlife protection and human-animal coexistence.
Executive Councillor Er Phunsok Tashi commended students for their active participation and emphasised that community-led initiatives are crucial for safeguarding habitats. He noted that increasing awareness among locals has led to a decline in poaching incidents in recent years.
Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Kumar highlighted the importance of harmonious coexistence between people and wildlife, assuring that wetland conservation and habitat preservation would remain key administrative priorities.
Wildlife Warden Raza Abidi presented a report on the week’s awareness campaigns, competitions, and outreach activities, underscoring that wildlife serves as an essential indicator of ecological health and that its protection is vital for environmental balance.
The concluding function featured cultural performances and skits by students from various schools, depicting themes of conservation and environmental stewardship, which drew wide appreciation from the audience. Dignitaries later felicitated students, organisers, and contributors for their active involvement before participants collectively pledged continued commitment to wildlife protection.
Observed from October 2 to 8, National Wildlife Week 2025 included a range of events held at Stakpa, Kaksar, Silmo, Bal Ashram Baroo, Suru Valley Public Higher Secondary School, Government High School Bhimbat, and Government Degree College Drass, culminating in the final ceremony at the Auditorium Hall, Kargil.
The week-long observance aimed to spread awareness about Ladakh’s ecological significance and foster responsible attitudes toward wildlife and natural habitats. Among the dignitaries present were Executive Councillor (Wildlife) Er Phunsok Tashi, Deputy Commissioner and CEO LAHDC Kargil Rakesh Kumar, ADC Imteaaz Kacho, Chief Education Officer Sonam Wangchuk, and Wildlife Warden Raza Abidi, alongside officials, teachers, students, and civil society representatives.
