Dr. Ashfaq Ahmed Zarri: Serving Institutions Without Seeking Spotlight.

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

BY SAHIL HAMID

RAJOURI JAN,04:-Dr. Ashfaq Ahmed Zarri, an eminent academician and administrator from the district of Rajouri, has carved a distinguished place for himself in the landscape of higher education in Jammu and Kashmir through decades of sincere service, integrity, and scholarly excellence. His career stands as a reflection of perseverance, intellectual commitment, and an unshakable belief in ethical public service.

He pursued his Master’s degree in Wildlife Science from Aligarh Muslim University during 1997–1999 and later earned his Ph.D. in Wildlife Science from the University of Mumbai between 2001 and 2005. This strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for his lifelong engagement with ecological research and institutional leadership. He began his professional journey as a Senior Research Scholar at the Bombay Natural History Society, Mumbai, where he contributed to wildlife and conservation studies of national importance. He later served as Scientist (Senior Scale) at the Centre for Biodiversity Studies, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, playing a key role in strengthening biodiversity research initiatives.

His administrative contributions have been equally significant. At Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri, he served as Deputy Registrar from July 2005 to December 2012 and also held the important responsibility of Registrar, contributing decisively during crucial phases of the university’s institutional growth. His work covered campus development, human resource planning, internal quality assurance, academic affairs, recruitment, project management, public relations, and estate and legal matters. His administrative conduct was marked by transparency, fairness, and a deep sense of accountability.

Since January 2013, he has been serving the University of Kashmir, Srinagar, where he is currently holding the position of Joint Registrar. In this role, he continues to contribute to effective academic governance and administrative coordination, earning respect for his balanced decision-making and ethical approach.

Alongside administration, he has made valuable contributions to ecological research, particularly on threatened bird species such as the Nilgiri Laughingthrush, Kashmir Flycatcher, and Narcondam Hornbill. His studies on montane wet-temperate forests, high-altitude Shola grasslands, and invasive species like Scotch Broom in the Western Ghats have enriched conservation science in one of the world’s most critical biodiversity regions. As a Principal Investigator and Coordinator, he has also implemented nature education programmes for school children, bioresource-based training initiatives for rural women and artisans, and several eco-development projects funded by departments of the Government of India.
What truly distinguishes him is his personal character.

Dr Zari Known for honesty, simplicity, and unwavering dedication to work, he has remained humble and accessible despite holding key administrative positions. Coming from a modest background in Rajouri, his journey to academic and administrative distinction was shaped by struggle, hard work, and determination.

His life and career serve as an inspiring example of how integrity, knowledge, and perseverance can together create lasting impact. His contributions continue to benefit institutions, communities, and future generations, leaving behind a legacy rooted in service and sincerity