Jammu: Jammu and Kashmir’s Forest Minister Javed Ahmed Rana has called for innovative conservation measures to protect endangered species recently spotted in the Pir Panjal region.
During a visit to Poonch, Rana discussed conservation strategies with wildlife officials, emphasizing the need to assess threats to biodiversity and develop balanced solutions.
Wildlife officials last year captured and released Brandt’s Hedgehog in Nowshera and Shachera after conducting studies. They also confirmed sightings of the smooth-coated otter in Ghambir Mughlian, Rajouri (October 2024) and the critically endangered pangolin in Nowshera (January 2025).
“These discoveries highlight the region’s rich biodiversity, and we must take steps to protect species like the Brandt’s Hedgehog, pangolin, and otter,” Rana said.
He directed officials to conduct population surveys and assess threats to wildlife. He also stressed involving local communities in conservation efforts, enhancing enforcement mechanisms, and mitigating human-wildlife conflict.
“Protecting biodiversity requires balancing development with conservation,” Rana added.
