Ladakh, March 3: In a landmark initiative on World Wildlife Day, the Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army and the Forest, Ecology & Environment Department, UT Ladakh, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at preserving the fragile high-altitude ecology of Ladakh and conserving key wildlife species under the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP).
In a statement issued to Kashmir Convener on Tuesday, an official spokesperson of Fire and Fury Corps said the MoU was formalised in the presence of Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Fire & Fury Corps, and Shri Ashish Kundra, IAS, Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh.
He said the agreement focuses on promoting sustainable development and strengthening environmental protection efforts across Ladakh’s sensitive mountain ecosystems.
“It reaffirms a shared commitment to safeguarding the Union Territory’s rich biodiversity, particularly iconic and vulnerable species such as the Snow Leopard, Himalayan Wolf, Bharal, Ibex, Marmot, and the Black-necked Crane, along with their natural habitats,” spokesperson said in the statement.
As part of the collaboration, a joint Snow Leopard Conservation Cell will be established to monitor conservation initiatives and further species protection objectives. The partnership aims to institutionalise coordinated conservation measures while encouraging eco-friendly practices in the region.
Highlighting the Indian Army’s longstanding commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship, officials noted that the force continues to balance the dual responsibility of securing the nation’s borders and protecting the local flora and fauna.
Spokesperson said the MoU sets a unique framework for cooperation between defence and civil authorities to ensure the long-term preservation of Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem for future generations.
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