Leh, 1st February 2025 – The Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment and the Ladakh Wetland Authority commemorated World Wetlands Day 2025 at Sindhu Ghat, Shey, with a series of activities aimed at promoting wetland conservation and awareness.

The day began with a birding session at Shey led by Padma Gyalpo, where birders recorded 19 bird species, including six waterbird species. This session was also part of the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2025, an initiative to monitor waterbird populations. Simultaneously, another group conducted a cleanliness drive around Sindhu Ghat, reinforcing the importance of maintaining wetland ecosystems.

Later in the day, a formal programme was held in the presence of Sh. Sajjad Hussain Mufti, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests, UT Ladakh/ Member Secretary, Ladakh Wetland Authority. In his address, Sh. Sajjad Hussain Mufti emphasized the importance of wetlands, the threats they face, and the need for collective conservation efforts.

Further, a quiz competition was conducted, featuring teams composed of one forest official, one wildlife official, one NGO representative, and one university student, fostering collaboration among various stakeholders.

The event witnessed active participation from the staff of the Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment, along with representatives from various organizations such as WISA, BNHS, WWF, NCF, and SLC-IT, as well as students from the University of Ladakh. The winning team of the quiz competition was felicitated with prizes, while all participants also received tokens of appreciation for their involvement.

The programme concluded with a discussion on the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2025 schedule to be held from 3rd to 7th February 2025, focused on participant grouping and survey procedures.

The event ended with a vote of thanks to all the participants.