Aimed at formulating collaboration among different stakeholders for safeguarding natural heritage of J&K, a brainstorming workshop on ‘Conserving Our Natural Heritage: A Way Forward’ was held at University of Kashmir (KU) here on Saturday.
During the workshop members from Judiciary, Academics, Natural Resource Management, Wildlife, Civil Society and Media discussed ways and means of safeguarding natural heritage including the rich biodiversity, flora and fauna of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The workshop was jointly organized by the Centre for Biodiversity and Taxonomy, Department of Botany, KU and Wildlife Trust of India (WTI). Dean Research, KU, Prof Zafar A Reshi, Chief Guest on the occasion talked about the collective responsibility in conserving the natural heritage of the state.
Prof Azra N Kamli, dean School of Biological Sciences, KU, who was special guest on the occasion said, “there is a dire need of awareness among the masses especially in rural areas as they are closer to nature. We need to stop the illegal trade of flora and fauna. The State Biodiversity Board should be pro-active and play it’s role in conserving the environment.”
Head, Department of Botany, KU, Prof Abdul Hamid Wani, who was the convener of the workshop, said, “we cannot wait any longer to witness more disasters and deterioration of our environment. During the workshop, the participants unanimously agreed that besides having a strong political will there is a need for better coordination among the stakeholders for successful implementation and enforcement of various environmental laws and regulation to put a check on illegal trade in flora and fauna and loss of wetlands. Dr Anzar A Khuroo, organising secretary, presented the welcome address and conducted the proceedings of the workshop. Dr Riyaz Ahmad, co-organising secretary, presented vote of thanks.