Bhaderwah – The Four-day National Workshop on ‘Techniques for Wildlife Monitoring in Snow Leopard Landscapes’ concluded today, bringing together experts, researchers, conservationists, and government officials dedicated to the preservation and understanding of snow leopards.
Commencing on October 17, 2023, at Bhaderwah Campus, the workshop was organized by the Institute of Mountain Environment in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Protection, Government of Jammu and Kashmir. It aimed to be a pivotal event for advancing wildlife conservation efforts in snow leopard habitats within the region.
Eminent experts in wildlife conservation delivered presentations on innovative monitoring techniques, including camera trapping, satellite tracking, and non-invasive methods. Practical demonstrations allowed participants to gain hands-on experience with the latest monitoring technologies.
Engaging discussions served as a platform for sharing ideas and experiences, addressing the challenges and opportunities in snow leopard conservation.
During the Valedictory function, Dr. Neeraj Sharma, the Organizing Secretary, emphasized the workshop’s significance, stating, “This workshop has served as an invaluable platform for pooling knowledge and resources toward snow leopard conservation.”
Over the course of the workshop, 14 indoor sessions covered topics such as sampling design, snow leopard identification, ungulate monitoring, data analysis, and more. Additional sessions addressed the ecology and behaviors of other mammals, bird population assessment, entomology, and the season watch program for phonological monitoring of trees.
A field trip to the upper reaches of Bhaderwah allowed participants to gain practical experience in camera trapping techniques, trail sampling, and insect collection. Dr. Neeraj Sharma expressed his gratitude to all participants, speakers, co-organizing partners, and sponsors for their unwavering support in making the workshop a success.
Formal vote of thanks were presented by Arif Haleem Khateeb, External Relations Officer of Bhaderwah Campus.
The Chenab Times News Desk
