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| Snow leopard |
In North India, the state of Uttarakhand is set to develop the country's first snow leopard conservation center in the forests of Uttarkashi district. The center will be developed by the state forest department and the United Nations Developmental Programme (UNDP). The main goals of establishing this center are conservation, restoration of Himalayan ecosystems, and establishing local livelihood. The project also plans for conservation of snow leopards and other endangered Himalayan species. According to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat, the areas where the leopards have been sighted should be noted by the forest department by the "cooperation of local people and military forces." He further added that the conservation of snow leopards in Uttarakhand will encourage winter tourism and that the big cats share their mountainous home with various other species of wildlife, which are the center of attraction to tourists. In a meeting with the Chief Minister, State Forest Minister, and officials, it was notified that a number of snow leopards have been sighted in Pithoragarh and Uttarkashi districts but the actual figures are obscure. Based on many researches, it has been confirmed that there are 86 snow leopards currently living in Uttarakhand. In addition to the conservation center, Uttarakhand is also in the process of creating six city forests to extend green area in the state's urban regions. The forest department has announced plans to create city forests in the Kumaon region, two in the plains, and four in the hilly districts. The goal of developing city forests is to build up the green cover in urban regions and to connect locals with greenery and a clean environment. The regions that have been selected are Almora, Bageshwar, Champawat, Dehradun, Nainital, and Pithoragarh.
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| A snow leopard captured on camera trap in Hemis National Park. |
I cannot express what a fantastic move Uttarakhand is making with respect to its local wildlife and nature conservation. The snow leopard is not just one of the most iconic animals of the Himalayas, but also the top predator. It plays a crucial role in keeping populations of mountain goats, sheep, and other animals under control. An establishment of a center dedicated to the conservation of the snow leopard and Himalayan ecosystems, and creating livelihood for the local people is essential in ensuring a peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife. In addition, the move will also promote tourism in Uttarakhand and I think it will be a great way for people visiting India to witness the country in its natural and pristine state. I'm also very proud to see that Uttarakhand is going to establish city forests. Not only will it connect the local people to greenery and a clean environment, but developing city forests is known to benefit the climate and economy. It is even said that city forests remove air pollutants and provide health benefits such as lower risks of asthma and lung cancer. I strongly believe that other states across India should follow Uttarakhand's example in conservation of their local wildlife and wild places. This would help India take its place as a world leader in global conservation.
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