KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, July 08:In a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir, the Department of Wildlife Protection on Tuesday honoured Sajad Ahmad Shah, a dedicated official whose relentless commitment significantly contributed to the conservation and effective management of Dachigam National Park. The felicitation ceremony was held in Srinagar, celebrating the remarkable feat of the park securing the highest score nationwide in the Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) exercise.
The MEE exercise was conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India. Dachigam National Park earned a top score of 92.97%, placing it at the pinnacle among 438 protected areas assessed across the country.
At the event, Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana, extended heartfelt congratulations to the officials, officers, and support staff of the Wildlife Protection Department. He lauded their efforts in elevating Dachigam to a national benchmark in protected area management, and called it a model for effective conservation.
Sajad Ahmad Shah, now serving as a Range Officer in the department, was especially honoured for his pivotal role in achieving this distinction during his tenure as Block Officer. Speaking at the event, Shah expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “It is deeply satisfying to see years of hard work being recognised at this level. This award is not just a personal honour but a moment of pride for the entire Jammu and Kashmir.”
The ceremony, held at the picturesque Dachigam National Park, was attended by key dignitaries, including MLA Salman Ali Sagar, Commissioner Secretary for Forest, Ecology & Environment Sheetal Nanda, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Suresh Kumar Gupta, and Chief Wildlife Warden Sarvesh Rai, along with senior officials, NGO representatives, staff members, and wildlife trainees.
Dachigam National Park is not only a natural gem of Kashmir but also a critical habitat for the critically endangered Hangul (Kashmir Stag). Its success in national rankings is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the department and underscores the significance of professional wildlife management, sustainable practices, and continuous conservation efforts in the Himalayan region.
This recognition reaffirms Jammu and Kashmir’s commitment to preserving its ecological legacy and inspires greater accountability and dedication among all stakeholders working to protect the Union Territory’s rich biodiversity.
