LG Manoj Sinha Chairs 6th J&K Wildlife Board Meeting; Hangul Population Surges to 323

JAMMU, December 29, 2025: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired the 6th meeting of the Wildlife Board for the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir today at Lok Bhavan, focusing on the sustainable management of biodiversity and habitat conservation. The meeting was attended by high-ranking officials, including Minister Javed Ahmed Rana, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and various conservation experts.

Highlighting a major conservation success, the Board noted a significant increase in the Hangul (Kashmiri Stag) population, which has grown from 127 in 2008 to 323 in the 2025 census. The Lieutenant Governor emphasized the need for active community involvement and eco-tourism, directing the department to provide public transport to key destinations like Jambu Zoo, Hokersar, and the Gharana Wetland to inspire the younger generation.

During the session, the Board accorded wildlife clearance to several critical infrastructure projects, including 4G-saturation, the Jal Jeevan Mission, and the installation of avalanche warning systems, while recommending others to the National Board of Wildlife. Addressing the challenges of human-wildlife conflict, the Board discussed the increasing crop damage caused by Wild Boars, Blue Bulls, and monkeys, exploring potential compensation mechanisms for affected farmers.

The meeting concluded with the release of several key publications, including the Wildlife Calendar 2026 and a report documenting the first-ever discovery of the Hedgehog in Jammu & Kashmir, further showcasing the region’s rich and expanding natural heritage.