Srinagar, Dec 16: The Division of Wildlife Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, SKUAST-Kashmir successfully organized a one-day training program on “Sustaining Livelihoods through Wildlife Management” at Safapora, Manasbal. The program, held under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), brought together experts, community representatives, students, and environmental enthusiasts to explore innovative approaches to integrating wildlife management with sustainable livelihoods.
Inaugurating the event, Prof. Khursheed Ahmad, Head of the Division of Wildlife Sciences, emphasized the importance of wildlife conservation in fostering community development and maintaining ecological balance. He highlighted how responsible wildlife management can serve as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth, particularly in rural and ecologically sensitive regions.
Dr. Aafaq A. Parrey, Program Coordinator and Assistant Professor/Jr. Scientist, provided a comprehensive overview of the training, focusing on the role of entrepreneurial initiatives in promoting self-reliant livelihoods. He underscored the program’s hands-on approach in equipping participants with practical skills to generate income through wildlife-based start-ups, ultimately contributing to societal growth.
The key sessions of the training included,the role of biodiversity in sustainable agriculture, tourism, and local economies;Participatory conservation models engaging local communities;Successful eco-tourism projects enhancing livelihoods while preserving wildlife;
Strategies to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts and promote coexistence.
A series of insightful sessions were conducted by Prof. Khursheed Ahmad, Dr. Aamir Bhat, Dr. Maqbool Rather, Dr. Tawqir Bashir, Dr. Inam Saba, and Dr. Tariq Ahmad.
Concluding the program, Dr. Aafaq A. Parrey expressed gratitude to Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. N.A. Ganai, Director of Planning and Monitoring Prof. H.R. Naik, Dean Faculty of Forestry Prof. S.A. Gangoo, and Head of the Division Prof. Khursheed Ahmad for their unwavering support. He also extended sincere appreciation to the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, for sponsoring the program.
The event successfully underscored the potential of wildlife management as a tool for sustainable livelihoods, particularly for rural and environmentally sensitive areas.
