JK Environment Minister Highlights Milestones in Hangul Conservation at International Conference

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

SRINAGAR SEPTEMBER 12:-J&K Minister for Forest, Ecology & Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana, today addressed the valedictory session of the 2nd International Conference on Hangul & Threatened Ungulates Conservation, held at the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) – Kashmir.

The event was presided over by the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Omar Abdullah.

The conference, which brought together leading scientists, wildlife conservationists, policymakers and stakeholders from across the country and abroad, focused on strategies for the protection and recovery of threatened ungulate species, particularly the Hangul (Cervus hanglu hanglu) – Kashmir’s iconic and critically endangered Red Deer.

In his address, the Minister expressed satisfaction over the steady recovery of the Hangul population, which has risen from 127 individuals in 2008 to 323 in 2025, attributing this success to sustained conservation initiatives, scientific management, and habitat restoration undertaken by the Department of Wildlife Protection in collaboration with national and international partners.

“The revival of the Shikargah Breeding Centre marks a pivotal milestone in our conservation journey,” said Shri Rana. “This facility will serve not only as a breeding hub for Hangul but also as a center for research and capacity-building in wildlife management.”

Underscoring the rich and diverse ecological heritage of Jammu & Kashmir, the Minister highlighted the presence of other rare and threatened species such as the Markhor (Capra falconeri) and the Kashmir Musk Deer (Moschus cupreus), which form an integral part of the region’s unique biodiversity.

“Our natural heritage is a source of immense ecological pride. Protecting it is not only a constitutional and environmental obligation but a moral one,” Rana emphasized.

“We are deeply grateful to the Hon’ble Chief Minister for his visionary leadership and unwavering support to conservation efforts in Jammu & Kashmir.”

The Minister reiterated the commitment of Government led by Omar Abdullah to protecting and preserving Jammu & Kashmir’s wildlife for future generations through participatory conservation, research-led policy interventions, and robust stakeholder engagement.