Ladakh: A historic step towards wildlife conservation was taken today on World Wildlife Day as the Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army and the Forest, Ecology and Environment Department, UT Ladakh, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to preserve the fragile ecology and conserve majestic species such as the Snow Leopard, Himalayan Wolf, Bharal, Ibex, Marmot, and Black-necked Crane, along with their habitats, under the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection (GSLEP) programme.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla, UYSM, SC, SM, VSM, GOC, Fire & Fury Corps, and Shri Ashish Kundra, IAS, Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh.
The agreement aims to promote sustainable development and environmental protection in Ladakh’s high-altitude ecosystems, reaffirming a shared commitment to preserving the region’s rich biodiversity and fragile environment for future generations.
The Indian Army has consistently demonstrated its commitment to sustainable development and nature conservation, balancing the sometimes competing responsibilities of safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting local flora and fauna. A joint Snow Leopard Conservation Cell will be established to monitor conservation efforts and further the goals of species protection.
This partnership sets a unique framework for developing eco-friendly practices and strengthening wildlife conservation initiatives in Ladakh.