JAMMU, Oct 9: The Wildlife Protection Department, Jammu and Kashmir, organised the valedictory function of Wildlife Week 2026 at the Convention Centre, Jammu. Senior government functionaries, forest and wildlife officers, academic institutions, conservation organisations, students and nature enthusiasts took part.
The Chief Guest, Sheetal Nanda, Commissioner/Secretary, Forest, Ecology and Environment Department, J&K, was accorded a Guard of Honour by a contingent of the Forest Protection Force. She then visited exhibition stalls showcasing conservation initiatives by CSIR–Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Jammu; Central University of Jammu; Wildlife Trust of India; Eco Task Force; Social Forestry Department; Himalaya Avian; Wildlife Protection Department; Forest Research Institute; and other participating organisations.
A major highlight was the launch of “VARAK,” the Department’s monthly wildlife magazine, along with the virtual inauguration of the Zoo Management System and the launch of the Department’s new website. Together, these initiatives mark an important step towards strengthening conservation communication, modernising wildlife management, disseminating information and enhancing public engagement through digital platforms.
Addressing the gathering, Sheetal Nanda emphasised the need for a sustainable development pathway that harmonises economic prosperity with environmental protection. Speaking of intergenerational responsibility, she observed that natural heritage should be regarded not merely as a gift from our ancestors, but as a legacy borrowed from future generations.
Sarvesh Rai, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force, J&K, underlined the importance of Wildlife Week in connecting society, particularly the younger generation, with nature conservation through awareness, education and public participation.
Suneesh Buxy, PCCF/Chief Wildlife Warden, J&K, stressed the need for landscape-level conservation, coordinated habitat management and scientific interventions. He said the survival of every species is critical to maintaining ecological balance and sustaining life on Earth.
In his welcome address, Sandeep Kumar, IFS, Regional Wildlife Warden, Jammu, gave an overview of the events held during Wildlife Week. He said that more than 100 events were conducted, with thousands of participants from across sections of society, including students, youth, wildlife enthusiasts and NGOs. He noted that the Department adopted digital tools in several of its public outreach programmes, introducing online registration of participants, e-passes and e-certificates. An online photography contest was also held for the first time, widening participation and bringing the Department’s outreach closer to a technology-driven audience.
Presenting the vote of thanks, Mohd Rafiq, Wildlife Warden, Jammu, expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, senior officers, participating institutions, conservation organisations, students and frontline personnel for their contributions to the success of Wildlife Week 2026. He reiterated that wildlife conservation is a collective responsibility, requiring sustained public participation and a commitment to preserving natural heritage for posterity.
The function concluded with a renewed resolve to strengthen wildlife protection, promote sustainable development, embrace technological innovation and foster a conservation-oriented society.
The central message of Wildlife Week 2026 was clear: every species matters, every ecosystem counts, and safeguarding our natural heritage is a shared responsibility towards future generations.