JAMMU: Around 500 people participated in a heritage walk along the Manda Eco-Trail through the Ramnagar Wildlife Sanctuary on Sunday as part of Wildlife Week 2026 celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir.
The event, organised by the Wildlife Protection Department under the theme “Walk for Wildlife, Walk for Drug Free Society”, aimed to promote wildlife conservation and environmental awareness, particularly among young people.
The walkathon began from Hari Palace, Manda, passed through Kamala Top in the Manda Hills and concluded at the Wildlife Complex, Manda. Participants included students, researchers, academicians, nature enthusiasts, representatives of non-governmental organisations, fitness groups, senior citizens and government officials.
Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Ecology and Environment Department, Sheetal Nanda, flagged off the event.
Wildlife Week is being observed across the country from October 2 to 8 under the theme “Connecting Habitats, Thriving Wildlife”. The Jammu and Kashmir Wildlife Protection Department is conducting a series of programmes across the Union Territory focused on habitat protection, ecological connectivity and public participation in conservation efforts.
Addressing participants, Nanda said initiatives such as heritage walks help raise awareness about the importance of healthy habitats in maintaining ecological balance and conserving natural resources.
The programme was organised in collaboration with Art of Living, MOBE and Heal Foundation. Activities included a nature trail, interactive quiz, signature-wall pledge campaign and an exhibition of student artwork highlighting the faunal diversity of Jammu and Kashmir.
Participants were also sensitised about responsible behaviour in protected areas, including avoiding single-use plastics, staying on designated trails, refraining from littering and minimising disturbance to wildlife.
The event concluded with a pledge to support wildlife conservation, protect natural habitats and promote a drug-free society.
