SRINAGAR: The Jammu & Kashmir Forest Department has achieved a remarkably high score of 92.97% for Dachigam National Park in Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) exercise, conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change.

Minister for Forest, Ecology & Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana, has praised the officers of the Wildlife Department for this outstanding achievement in conservation of protected areas in ecologically sensitive Jammu and Kashmir. He referred the accomplishment as a benchmark to be emulated in other protected areas in J&K.

This achievement showcases the exceptional management skills and dedication towards conservation of protected areas in ecologically fragile J&K, he said.

Dachigam National Park has emerged as the highest-scoring individual Protected Area among 438 protected areas assessed across the country. He highlighted its excellence in biodiversity protection, ecological management, staff efficiency and community engagement.

The Minister emphasized that the protected areas are crucial components of global conservation efforts, essential for preserving the biodiversity and maintaining the ecological balance.

He highlighted the importance of community awareness, anti-poaching efforts and reiterated the Government’s commitment towards strengthening the eco-tourism, biodiversity monitoring and habitat restoration across Jammu & Kashmir.

Rana thanked the Ministry of Environment and Forests for undertaking this ambitious exercise and acknowledged their invaluable technical guidance and financial assistance. He asked the officers to continue their commitment and dedication towards conservation of natural resources and ensuring the survival of India’s diverse flora and fauna for generations to come.

The achievement of Dachigam National Park sets a precedent for other protected areas in Jammu and Kashmir, demonstrating the potential for effective conservation and management practices to thrive in J&K.

The Minister highlighted the significance of collaborative efforts in protecting the region’s natural heritage for future generations.

Dachigam National Park covers 141 km and is the only global habitat for the Hangul.

The park's management has been recognized for its efforts in conservation and recommendations have been made to further enhance its effectiveness, including making the Hangul Conservation Breeding Centre fully functional and promoting eco-tourism.

No: PR/DI/25/765/

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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