SRINAGAR: The week-long celebration of Wildlife Week 2024 concluded with a grand culmination event at the picturesque wetlands of Hokersar, fostering awareness and appreciation for the rich biodiversity of our natural world. This year's theme, ‘Wildlife Conservation through Co-existence’ resonated deeply with participants, who gathered to honor the vital role wildlife plays in maintaining ecological balance.
The chief guest on the occasion Tawheed Ahmad Deva, Regional Wildlife Warden, Department of Wildlife Protection remarked on the importance of such initiatives, stating, “Wildlife Week serves as a reminder that our commitment to conservation must be unwavering. Every action we take today shapes the future of our planet. Together, we can ensure that our diverse ecosystems thrive for generations to come.”
In his address, Deva emphasized the significance of community involvement in wildlife preservation, stating, “it is not just the responsibility of government agencies; every individual has a role to play in safeguarding our natural heritage. By fostering a culture of respect for wildlife, we can create a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.”
Simultaneously World Migratory Bird Day 2024 was also celebrated at the renowned Hokersar Wetlands, a vital habitat for countless migratory birds. The theme for this year’s Migratory Bird Day is ‘Protect Insects, Protect Birds’. The theme highlights the importance of insects to migratory birds and the need to protect the declining insect population.
Speaking on the occasion, Altaf Hussain, Wildlife Warden Wetlands highlighted the importance of protecting these avian travelers and their ecosystems. He said that the Migratory Bird Day serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the natural corridors that these birds rely on. Every flight across continents is a testament to the resilience of nature, and we must ensure that future generations can witness this wonder.
Every year, millions of birds undertake incredible journeys, and it is our duty to safeguard their paths, he further said. The event featured a variety of activities, including guided nature walks, bird watching tours, educational workshops and interactive discussions led by wildlife experts. Participants had the opportunity to witness the firsthand beauty of local flora and fauna while engaging in meaningful conversations about conservation efforts and sustainable practices.
In the concluding session participants reflected on the week’s events and the shared commitment to protecting the environment. The culmination of Wildlife Week 2024 stands as a testament to the collective effort needed to nurture and conserve our planet’s invaluable wildlife. The event was attended by a diverse gathering of eminent environmentalists, wildlife enthusiasts, students and educators, local community members, representatives from NGOs and senior officers from the Forest and Wildlife Department.
