Kargil, March 31, 2026: An Inception Workshop on the preparation of People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBRs) was held at Syed Mehdi Auditorium Hall in Kargil, marking a key step toward documenting and conserving the region’s rich ecological heritage.
The workshop was inaugurated by Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Kargil.
Collaborative Effort for Biodiversity Documentation
The programme was organized by the Ladakh Biodiversity Council in collaboration with the Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment, UT Ladakh, and the Foundation for Revitalization of Local Health Traditions.
The initiative aims to prepare comprehensive biodiversity registers for Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) across the district. These registers will be developed on a digital platform and maintained online for easy access and monitoring.
Tribute Paid to Forest Guard
The programme began with a welcome address by Wildlife Warden Raza Ali Abidi, followed by a two-minute silence in memory of Forest Guard Ali Akbar, who lost his life in an avalanche at Zojila Pass on March 27, 2026.
Emphasis on Preserving Biodiversity and Traditional Knowledge
In his address, Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon stressed the urgent need to document and protect Ladakh’s unique biodiversity, including its flora, fauna, and water resources. He highlighted the importance of safeguarding traditional knowledge, especially related to medicinal plants and indigenous practices.
He also emphasized strengthening the traditional Sowa-Rigpa (Amchi) system of medicine, noting its potential for healthcare and livelihood generation in the region.
Focus on Sustainability and Water Conservation
The CEC expressed concern over depleting water resources and called for collective efforts to protect Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem. He underlined the need for sustainable development, ensuring that infrastructure growth does not harm environmental balance.
He further assured full institutional and technical support from LAHDC Kargil for biodiversity conservation and research initiatives.
Three-Tier Biodiversity Governance Explained
Shri Rajesh S. (IFS), APCCF, UT Ladakh, presented the three-tier framework for biodiversity governance, comprising:
- National Biodiversity Authority at the national level
- Ladakh Biodiversity Council at the UT level
- Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) at the grassroots level
He emphasized conservation, sustainable use of biodiversity, and equitable sharing of benefits arising from its utilization.
Linking Tradition with Modern Conservation
Executive Councillor Er. Punchok Tashi highlighted that biodiversity has always been central to life and said the BMC initiative would act as a bridge between traditional knowledge and modern practices, opening avenues for green jobs and local economic growth.
Deputy Commissioner/CEO Rakesh Kumar reaffirmed administrative support and stressed the importance of village-level biodiversity registers to identify economically and medicinally valuable species. He also announced support for BMCs through office space in Panchayat offices.
Programme Concludes with Vision for Ecological Resilience
The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr M. Abdul Kareem from FRLHT, who appreciated the collaboration among departments and stakeholders.
The event ended with a shared vision of leveraging Ladakh’s biodiversity for ecological resilience, sustainable development, and community empowerment.
