Central University of Jammu and Department of Wildlife Protection, J&K Govt, jointly mark World Wildlife Day 2026

JAMMU: In a vibrant display of commitment to conservation, scientific innovation, and youth engagement, the Department of Zoology, Central University of Jammu, in collaboration with the Wildlife Division Kathua, Department of Wildlife Protection, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, marked World Wildlife Day 2026 at the Brigadier Rajinder Singh Auditorium of the university campus.

The event, organized under the global theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods,” witnessed participation from more than 200 attendees, including students, faculty members, research scholars, and staff from various departments, highlighting the growing interest in wildlife conservation among young minds.

The programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. Dr. Vinita Sharma, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, formally welcomed the dignitaries and the gathering. She elaborated on the significance of World Wildlife Day, emphasizing the conservation of species protected under CITES and the collective responsibility to safeguard biodiversity.

Sh. Vijay Kumar, SFS, Wildlife Warden Kathua, provided an overview of departmental initiatives, including habitat improvement works, soil and moisture conservation, wildlife monitoring through camera trap techniques, and enforcement of wildlife protection laws. He also highlighted eco-tourism initiatives such as eco-trail development, awareness programmes, and capacity-building efforts for frontline staff, stressing their crucial role in mitigating human–wildlife conflict.

Delivering a keynote lecture, Sh. Om Parkash Sharma Vidyarthi, IFS (Retd. PCCF), Jammu and Kashmir, spoke extensively on the rich biodiversity of the region, particularly focusing on high-altitude medicinal and aromatic plants such as Podophyllum hexandrum, Saussurea costus, Picrorhiza kurroa, Bergenia ciliata, Valeriana jatamansi, Jurinea dolomiaea, and Trillium govanianum. He highlighted their importance in traditional medicine and their emerging role in modern therapeutics for treating diseases like cancer, asthma, wound healing, and respiratory disorders.

Adding an entrepreneurial perspective, Ms. Pooja Kapoor Suri, a noted herbal innovator, shared insights on value addition of forest-based products. She showcased a range of items including cakes, cookies, candles, pickles, and beverages derived from plants like Bombax ceiba and rhododendron, demonstrating how sustainable utilization of forest resources can support livelihoods while promoting conservation.

A major highlight of the event was an exhibition and live demonstration of wildlife management equipment by the Wildlife Division Kathua. The display included tranquilizing guns, wildlife rescue kits, fire protection tools, camera traps, and modern surveillance technologies such as drones used for wildlife monitoring and habitat assessment. Humane and innovative approaches to mitigate human–wildlife conflict, particularly the monkey menace, were also demonstrated.

The programme was graced by Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Central University of Jammu, as the Chief Guest. He appreciated the comprehensive exhibition and emphasized the importance of integrating scientific research, innovation, and youth participation in addressing ecological challenges and strengthening wildlife management strategies.

Adding a cultural dimension, Sh. O.P. Sharma Vidyarthi presented his bilingual poetry collection “बसंतगीततवीदा” to the Vice Chancellor. The book celebrates the ecological and cultural richness of River Tawi, connecting conservation with heritage and literature.

An informative documentary on the Gharana Wetland Conservation Reserve was screened, highlighting the ecological significance of wetlands and their role in supporting biodiversity, particularly migratory birds. Dr. Vinita Sharma, also Convenor of the Institution Innovation Cell, discussed the role of innovation and technology-driven research in addressing contemporary wildlife conservation challenges.

The event witnessed the presence of eminent academicians including Prof. Sunil Dhar, Dean, Life Sciences; Prof. Swarkar Sharma, Department of Zoology; Dr. Narendra Kumar Bairwa, Head, Centre for Molecular Biology; Dr. Yogesh Kumar, Head, Department of Botany; along with Dr. Vikas Srivastava and Dr. Ashok Kumar.

The celebration successfully underscored the importance of science-based conservation, community participation, technological advancement, and youth empowerment. It highlighted the need to integrate traditional ecological knowledge with modern innovations to safeguard India’s rich natural heritage.

The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Ashok Kumar Yadav, Head, Department of Zoology, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and organizers for making the programme a grand success.