Wildlife Deptt conducts training of
Hangul Watchers
SRINAGAR, JUNE 30:
The Department of Wildlife Protection, UT of Jammu and Kashmir, headed by
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests
(WL)/ Chief Wildlife Warden, J&K,
Sarvesh Rai and Conservator of Forests (WL)/Regional Wildlife Warden,
Kashmir, Pardeep Chandra Wahule, successfully conducted a training and
equipping programme of Markhor/ Hangul Watchers in collaboration with Wildlife
Trust of India (WTI) today at Dongimarg
Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary.
The welcome address
of Wildlife Warden Shopian / South Division Sohail Ahmad Wagay, emphasized on
Markhor and Hangul.
The Markhor is the
largest wild goat in the world. In India, the sub species is found only in the
Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The species is enlisted in
Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and Near Threatened under the
IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
The hangul is
classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List, as its population has
declined drastically over the years due to habitat loss, overgrazing by
domestic livestock, poaching, predation, diseases and human-wildlife conflicts.
The event was
attended by staff from Hirpora and Tral Wildlife Sanctuaries, Tanushree
Shrivastava (WTI Head), Sameer Khazir, and other staff from WTI.
Meanwhile, the
participants were trained on Data
collection, Direct and indirect evidences of Hangul and Markhor and filling up data sheets, online applications
for data entry.
The morning session
of the event included an awareness programme regarding the role of Wildlife in
ecological balance and need of conservation.
The training
program was attended by more than 50 participated in the training event.