Leh, February 08, 2025: The Chairman/CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson, LAHDC Leh, in the presence of Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor UT Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, held a joint review meeting to finalize the rationalization process of the Karakoram, Nubra, Shayok, and high-altitude desert Changthang Wildlife Sanctuaries. The meeting took place at the Civil Secretariat Leh.

At the outset, the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests provided a detailed Power Point presentation on the rationalization of these wildlife sanctuaries, followed by a discussion on result-oriented solutions.

The Advisor to HLG emphasized the need for a balanced approach that supports both conservation and sustainable development, ensuring ecological preservation aligns with local livelihood concerns, while stressing that human habitation should not be adversely affected.

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During the meeting, the Hon’ble CEC LAHDC Leh, along with other Executive Councillors and Councillors, presented their demands regarding the rationalization of the sanctuary boundaries. Detailed discussions were held on boundary demarcation, biodiversity conservation strategies, and the involvement of local communities in protecting these ecologically sensitive areas and agricultural lands. Considering the rights and demands of the local population and directed concerned officials to ensure that the rights of the people are upheld and that practical, result-oriented solutions are achieved.

Officials from the Forest Department presented reports on the current status of the wildlife sanctuaries, highlighting key conservation challenges and proposed solutions.

The rationalization process is designed to improve habitat protection, streamline management strategies, and address concerns related to human-wildlife conflict.

During the review, the Advisor emphasized that before finalizing the rationalization of the Karakoram (Nubra-Shayok) and high-altitude cold desert Changthang Wildlife Sanctuaries, thorough coordination with the Hon’ble CEC, LAHDC Leh, the concerned councillors, and other stakeholders is essential.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to expedite the rationalization process, ensuring that conservation priorities remain paramount. A final proposal will be submitted to the state wildlife board for further processing.

The meeting was attended by the Hon’ble Dy. Chairman, LAHDC Leh, Hon’ble Executive Councillors, Councillors of Nubra and Changthang, Commissioner Secretary of Forests UT Ladakh, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests UT Ladakh, Hon’ble Councillors, DC/CEO, LAHDC Leh, Wildlife Warden Leh, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, and other concerned officials. The Director of the Wildlife Institute of India participated virtually.