SRINAGAR: 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.