Excelsior Correspondent
LEH, May 14: The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Retd), Dr B D Mishra attended the 2nd edition of Himalayan Bird Count and the celebration of World Migratory Bird Day, organised by Wildlife Conservation and Birds Club of Ladakh (WCBCL).
The programme was organized in collaboration with Department of Wildlife Protection, UT Ladakh; UNDP’s Secure Himalaya, Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust, Nature Conservation Foundation and WWF, at Sindhu Ghat. The theme for this year’s World Migratory Bird Day is Water: Sustaining Bird Life.
Reinforcing the pledge taken by the youth and officials to protect the environment, LG highlighted the need for taking necessary measures for environment protection. He stated that the e Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken the lead in the fight against climate change to put a check on global warming. He emphasised the need for becoming conscious about leading a healthy life and protecting our fragile environment.
LG stated that the onus is on youth, who have a big and active role to play in protecting the fragile environment. He highlighted three major qualities of migratory birds, which he stated everyone should learn from them, i.e. their superb navigation skills, endurance and group affinity.
LG also launched the book, ‘Bird Life of Ladakh and Their Conservation Status’, authored by former Divisional Forest Officer, Mohd Abbas. He also interacted with the students who attended the event.
Principal Secretary, Dr Pawan Kotwal informed about the rich wildlife/flora and fauna of Ladakh, the recognition of the Black-necked crane and snow leopard as the State Bird and Animal of Ladakh, efforts being made by the Wildlife Department to protect the endangered species of animals and birds and the initiative taken in collaboration with Panchayats to protect the nesting ground of the migratory birds.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, Jigmet Takpa highlighted the importance of World Migratory Bird Day and shared several trivia with the students.
Ex-DFO Mohd Abbas informed that information about 256 species of birds found in Ladakh has been included in his book. He highlighted the challenges faced by the wildlife and migratory birds and requested the creation of artificial water bodies or a bird sanctuary to facilitate safe surroundings and breeding environments for the migratory birds found in Ladakh.
Lobzang Visuddha from WBBCL gave the vote of thanks.
Earlier, everyone took the pledge to protect the environment as a part of the Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE).
Head of Departments, officials/representatives from various NGOs and students from Lamdon School, Moravian Missionary School and Mahabodhi School were present during the event.
