PULWAMA, AUGUST 27: The Department of Wildlife Protection, Jammu & Kashmir, through the Office of the Wildlife Warden, Shopian Wildlife Division, Thursday conducted a Workshop-cum-Orientation Programme on “Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation and Wildlife Management” at Khangund Range, Satoora Aripal.
The programme was organised in collaboration with Wildlife SOS under the theme “Promoting Coexistence Through Conservation, Capacity Building and Scientific Wildlife Management.”
The event, held under the broader banner “Bridging the Gap – Understanding and Reducing Human-Wildlife Conflict,” brought together Wildlife Department officials, field staff, conservation partners from Wildlife SOS, and members of the local community, including village heads and residents of areas affected by recurring wildlife encounters. The programme aimed to strengthen coordination between the Wildlife Department and local communities while building practical, science-based capacity for conflict mitigation.
Assistant Conservator of Forests and Wildlife Warden, Shopian, Sohail Ah Wagay, spoke on the objectives of the programme and the importance of community participation in strengthening coordination between local residents and the Wildlife Department.
During an awareness session on human-wildlife conflict led by Aaliya Mir, Head of Wildlife SOS and Member, UT Wildlife Board, discussed the causes of conflict, wildlife behaviour, the reasons behind wildlife movement into human habitations, and preventive, community-based approaches to coexistence.
Dr. Mohsin Gazi, Departmental Veterinary Officer, Wildlife Protection Department, J&K, conducted a capacity-building and technical training session for field staff and participants, covering safe handling and rescue techniques for wildlife in distress.
Participants were sensitised on precautionary measures to reduce conflict, including keeping surroundings clean and properly disposing of waste, using secure fencing around farms and orchards, using solar lights or noise deterrents to humanely keep wildlife away, and promptly reporting wildlife sightings or incidents to the Department. Residents were also advised against feeding or luring wildlife, using firecrackers, poisons or other harmful methods, setting snares or traps, and encroaching upon or degrading wildlife habitats.
The Department of Wildlife Protection reiterated its commitment to community-centred conservation and stated that such awareness and orientation programmes will continue to be organised across the Shopian Wildlife Division to promote safer coexistence between residents and wildlife.
