On the occasion of International Biodiversity Day on May 22, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Kargil, in collaboration with Government Degree College (GDC) Kargil, organised an educational and awareness tour to Fokar in Kargil district.

The programme was conducted with the objective of promoting awareness about biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, and legal awareness related to environmental protection among students.

International Biodiversity Day is observed globally to highlight the importance of biodiversity and the urgent need to conserve ecosystems for future generations. The tour aimed to sensitise students towards ecological preservation and encourage active participation in environmental protection activities.

The tour commenced early in the morning from the college campus. Faculty members, representatives from DLSA Kargil, non-teaching staff, and a large number of students participated in the programme. Before departure, participants were briefed about the objectives of the tour, safety measures, and the significance of biodiversity conservation in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem of Ladakh.

As part of the programme, a nature walk was conducted from Shagaran to Rzong in the Fokar area. During the walk, students, faculty members, and DLSA officials explored the natural surroundings and closely observed the rich biodiversity of the region.

Dr. Tsetan Dolkar, Assistant Professor, Department of Botany, introduced students to various native plant species, medicinal herbs, and ecological features found in the area. She explained the importance of conserving local ecosystems and maintaining ecological balance in the fragile Himalayan environment.

The nature walk provided students with practical exposure to environmental studies and helped them develop a deeper appreciation for nature, wildlife, and biodiversity conservation.

At the Rzong area, the formal session began with an introductory address by Dr. Abid Hussain, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, who highlighted the importance of preserving local flora, fauna, water resources, and traditional ecological knowledge. He also discussed environmental challenges such as climate change, deforestation, habitat degradation, and unsustainable human practices.

Secretary, District Legal Services Authority Kargil, Chemit Yurgyal, delivered a detailed talk on spiritual awareness and environmental protection. He emphasised the deep connection between nature and spirituality, stating that environmental conservation is not only a legal and social responsibility but also a moral and spiritual duty.

He encouraged students to adopt environmentally responsible practices in their daily lives and spread awareness regarding conservation within their communities.

Advocate Nissar Hussain, Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel, Kargil, addressed the students on environmental laws, constitutional provisions related to environmental protection, and the role of citizens in safeguarding biodiversity.

Dr. Zakir Hussain, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, delivered an informative talk focusing on the ecological fragility of the Himalayan region and highlighted challenges including climate change, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, and environmental degradation caused by human activities. He stressed the urgent need for sustainable practices and collective responsibility to protect the region’s delicate ecosystem.

Interactive sessions were also held during the programme, where students shared their views, experiences, and suggestions regarding biodiversity conservation.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Zakir Hussain, who expressed gratitude to the Secretary DLSA Kargil, GDC Kargil administration, faculty members, and students for their active participation and support.

Refreshments were distributed among participants by DLSA staff members and para legal volunteers at the Shagaran area before the group returned to the college campus in the evening.

Overall, the educational tour to Fokar proved informative and impactful, enhancing environmental awareness among students and strengthening their understanding of biodiversity conservation, legal responsibility, and sustainable living practices.

The event reflected the commitment of DLSA Kargil and Government Degree College Kargil towards promoting environmental education and community engagement for the protection of nature and biodiversity.