POONCH, Feb 26: Minister for Forest, Ecology & Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana, emphasized the need for the Wildlife department to implement creative conservation strategies aimed at safeguarding rare and endangered species recently identified in the Pir Panjal region.
During his visit to the Pir Panjal area, he engaged with Wildlife department officers to deliberate on various conservation initiatives.
Last year, the Wildlife Protection (Poonch-Rajouri) successfully captured Brandt’s Hedgehog from Nowshera and Shachera, releasing them back into their natural habitat following thorough sampling and comprehensive studies. Additionally, they confirmed the presence of smooth coated Otters from Ghambir Mughlian, Rajouri in October 2024 and critically endangered Pangolin in January 2025 from Nowshera.
The Minister highlighted that these discoveries are promising for the Wildlife department and underscore the importance of protection and conservation measures.
“It is essential to implement conservation efforts in areas with biodiversity that supports species like Brandt’s Hedgehog, Pangolin, and Otters,” he stated.
He urged the officers to assess activities jeopardizing biodiversity and seek innovative solutions that balance environmental, economic, and social factors. The Minister pointed out that environmental conservation has become a crucial global priority, influenced by rising concerns over climate change and pollution.
“To achieve an environmental equilibrium, a more conscientious approach towards nature and wildlife conservation is vital. Every species performs a significant role in the ecosystem, and we must strike a delicate balance between human advancement and wildlife protection,” he remarked.
Rana noted that coexistence among diverse life forms is essential for maintaining ecosystem balance. His conservation initiatives include status assessments, research, monitoring, and creating conservation action plans alongside advocacy efforts. He also instructed the wildlife warden to conduct a population estimation of local species and to explore other areas for their presence.
“Assessing populations is fundamental for determining the status and risks faced by endangered species, allowing for the planning and implementation of recovery and conservation strategies,” he added.
Rana further stressed the importance of local community involvement in conserving endangered species and their habitats, as these communities are crucial in protecting these species from hunting and safeguarding their natural environments.
He called for enhanced enforcement actions, including wildlife monitoring, to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts—cornerstones of successful conservation efforts.
“There is a pressing need to design, evaluate, and refine solutions that lessen the impact of human activities on the environment and biodiversity,” he stated.
Rana also commended the field staff for their role in uncovering these rare species in dense forests.
Wildlife Warden, Amit Sharma, a wildlife expert, noted that sightings of these rare species have generated enthusiasm among wildlife enthusiasts, experts, and reignited interest in the region’s ecosystem. He assured that the department would carry out population censuses and research on these species to ensure their conservation in harmony with nature.
