Srinagar: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Javid Ahmad Dar on Saturday said avian conservation is essential for maintaining ecological balance, protecting biodiversity and strengthening climate resilience in ecologically fragile regions like Jammu and Kashmir.
He was addressing the valedictory session of the National Symposium on Avian Biology organised at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Kashmir.
Addressing scientists, conservationists, researchers and students from across the country, the minister said Jammu and Kashmir is home to nearly 600 recorded bird species spread across wetlands, forests, alpine habitats and river ecosystems.
He said birds play a crucial role in pollination, seed dispersal, pest control, scavenging and nutrient cycling, while also acting as indicators of environmental health.
Expressing concern over climate-related pressures, Javid Dar said habitat loss, shrinking wetlands, erratic weather patterns and increasing human interference are posing serious threats to avian diversity, particularly in the Himalayan region.
He stressed the need for scientific research, habitat restoration, stronger policy measures and active community participation to address these challenges.
The minister said the symposium would contribute significantly towards advancing avian research, ecological monitoring and collaborative conservation efforts in the country.
Highlighting the tourism potential linked to bird diversity, he said Jammu and Kashmir’s wetlands, lakes and mountain landscapes attract birdwatchers, wildlife photographers and eco-tourists from across the world, creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Javid Dar also reiterated the government’s commitment towards protecting the region’s natural heritage while promoting environmentally sustainable development.
Among others present on the occasion were Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Khursheed Ahmad, L S Shashidhara and Anand S Dixit.
