Cleanliness Drive and an Awareness Lecture on the theme,"Wildlife Conservation Through Co-existence"

On the occasion of Wildlife Week, the Department of Environmental Science, Department of Zoology, and the NSS unit of the college, in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Protection and Wetlands Division, Kashmir, Srinagar, organized a significant event at the Chatlam Wetland. This program consisted of a cleanliness drive followed by an awareness session on the theme "Wildlife Conservation Through Co-existence". The event took place under the guidance and leadership of Prof. Saffiya Khail, Principal of the college. The program commenced with a cleanliness drive at the Chatlam Wetland, a vital habitat known for its rich biodiversity. Volunteers, students, faculty members of GDC Pampore, and staff from the Department of Wildlife Protection actively participated in this initiative. The drive aimed at promoting environmental stewardship and maintaining the ecological balance of this important wetland. Participants worked collectively to remove waste and debris, thus contributing to the conservation of the wetland environment. Following the cleanliness drive, an awareness session was conducted, focusing on the theme "Wildlife Conservation Through Co-existence". The session featured two notable speakers: Mr. Parvez Yousuf, an Ornithologist, researcher, and author, and Mr. Nadeem Ahmad Dar, CEO of J&K Eco-Watch. Mr. Parvez Yousuf emphasized the critical role that wetlands and other natural habitats play in supporting diverse species, particularly bird populations. He spoke about the various bird species found in Kashmir, highlighting their importance in the ecosystem. He also discussed the threats faced by wildlife due to habitat destruction and human interference. Mr. Nadeem Ahmad Dar focused on the broader topic of wildlife conservation, stressing the need for co-existence between humans and wildlife. He emphasized the role humans in preserving natural habitats. Both speakers underscored the importance of conservation through co-existence, urging the audience to adopt more eco-friendly lifestyles and practices. They highlighted that protecting wildlife is not just about preserving species but also about ensuring ecological balance, which benefits humans as well. Concluding remarks were presented by the Principal of the college Prof. Saffiya Khail, in her concluding remarks she expressed deep appreciation for the collective efforts made by the organizers, volunteers, students, and collaborating departments. She lauded the Department of Environmental Science, Department of Zoology, NSS and the Department of Wildlife Protection and Wetlands Division for making the event a success. She emphasized the need for continuous efforts to raise awareness about environmental conservation and the role each individual can play in protecting wildlife and natural resources. The program was smoothly coordinated and moderated by Prof. Irfan Khurshid Shah, Head of the Department of Environmental Science. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Prof. Kasira, NSS Programme Officer, who extended her gratitude to all participants and stakeholders for their involvement and support in this important initiative.