Javed Rana stresses water security, forest conservation as pillars of Himalayan development, calls for development model that balances growth with ecological protection

SRINAGAR: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today said that water security, forest conservation and sustainable development are closely interconnected and together form the pillars on which the future of the Himalayan region rests.

The Minister, who was the Guest of Honour, was addressing the 13th Sustainable Mountain Development Summit (SMDS) 2026 at SKUAST-Kashmir, Shalimar campus here. The three-day summit (October 12-14) is being organised by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir) in collaboration with the Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI). It has brought together scientists, policymakers, civil society representatives and community leaders from across India's mountain regions.

Speaking on the theme "Contouring Sustainable Himalayan Landscapes for Inclusive Viksit Bharat," the Minister termed it both timely and significant, emphasising that the development model for Jammu and Kashmir must balance economic growth with ecological protection.

He said the Himalayas are not merely a geographical feature but the lifeline of millions of people. He noted that forests, glaciers, rivers, springs and rich biodiversity sustain agriculture, horticulture, tourism and livelihoods, and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and ensuring water security for large parts of the country.

Underlining the importance of water security as a key pillar of sustainable mountain development, the Minister said, “Water security must remain one of our foremost priorities.” He stressed the need for protecting and rejuvenating springs, conserving catchment areas, promoting rainwater harvesting, improving water-use efficiency and ensuring the long-term sustainability of drinking water sources.

“While expanding water supply infrastructure, equal emphasis must be laid on the conservation and replenishment of natural water resources that sustain these systems. A sustainable approach to water management is essential to ensure reliable access to drinking water for communities while preserving the ecological balance of the Himalayan region,” he added.

The Minister expressed particular encouragement over the discussions on the proposed Jammu and Kashmir Sustainable Mountain Development Policy, whose first draft has been jointly developed by IMI and SKUAST-Kashmir and is being reviewed by national experts.

The proposed policy focuses on ecological carrying capacity, mountain-sensitive land-use planning, responsible tourism, resilient infrastructure, waste management, watershed and spring security, disaster-risk reduction and sustainable mountain livelihoods. The summit provides a platform for expert consultations and inter-governmental deliberations to further refine it.

"The real measure of development is not simply the number of projects completed, but the quality of life we secure for our people and the natural heritage we preserve for future generations," the Minister said.

Calling for a model of development in which economic progress does not come at the cost of ecological destruction, he said every village should have access to safe drinking water, forests and biodiversity must be protected, and young people should find sustainable livelihood opportunities in their own regions.

He expressed confidence that the deliberations of the summit would generate meaningful ideas, strengthen institutional partnerships and help shape a clear roadmap for the sustainable and inclusive development of Jammu and Kashmir and the wider Himalayan region.

The Minister called upon everyone to collectively commit to protecting mountains, conserving water resources, safeguarding forests and empowering communities. He extended his best wishes to all participants and organisers for a successful and productive summit.

SKUAST-K Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai outlined the key provisions of the draft policy, including the classification of four mountain sensitivity zones, integration of 11 policy verticals, tourism within carrying capacity, an affordable green mountain cess and strengthened interdepartmental coordination. He stressed the need to address unplanned, unregulated and unaccountable development and reform education to foster ecological responsibility among future generations.

Dr. Rajan Kotru, Counsellor, Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI), presented the Summit Report, highlighting outcomes from six technical sessions. He said the recommendations would inform further refinement of the draft policy.

Dr. Roshan Rai, Secretary, IMI, emphasised that inclusivity and equity must guide Himalayan development. Prof. P. D. Rai, former President, IMI, said the J&K draft policy could strengthen policy advocacy and provide a framework for other Himalayan states.

Prof. A. H. Mughal, Dean, Faculty of Forestry, SKUAST-K, welcomed the dignitaries and acknowledged IMI’s partnership in organising the summit and preparing the Summit Report and draft policy report. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Khursheed Ahmad Dar.

The special session featured panel discussions involving civil society members, former government officials and youth representatives. Participants shared perspectives on the priorities and provisions of the draft mountain policy, with their recommendations contributing to efforts to make the framework responsive to diverse stakeholder concerns and aspirations for sustainable and inclusive Himalayan development.

The three-day event underscored the need to connect scientific research with policymaking, with emphasis on indigenous knowledge, community participation and coordinated action to strengthen the resilience of Himalayan ecosystems and communities.