Kargil, May 25, 2026: On the occasion of International Biodiversity Day on 22nd May, District Legal Services Authority, Kargil in collaboration with Government Degree College, Kargil organized an educational and awareness tour to Fokar, Kargil. The programme was conducted with the objective of promoting awareness regarding biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, and legal awareness related to environmental protection among students.
International Biodiversity Day is celebrated globally to highlight the importance of biodiversity and the urgent need to conserve ecosystems for future generations. The tour aimed to sensitize students toward 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 the District Legal Services Authority, non-teaching staff, and a large number of enthusiastic 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.
A nature walk was also conducted from Shagaran to Rzong around the Fokar area during the tour as an important part of the International Biodiversity Day programme. During the walk, students, faculty members, and officials from the District Legal Services Authority Kargil explored the natural surroundings of Fokar and closely observed the rich biodiversity of the area. Students were introduced to various native plant species, medicinal herbs and ecological features found in the region by Dr. Tsetan Dolkar Assistant professor, Department of Botany. 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.
On reaching the Rzong area, the programme formally began with an introductory session highlighting the importance of preserving local flora, fauna, water resources, and traditional ecological knowledge by Dr. Abid Hussain, Assistant professor, Department of Zoology. He elaborated on the rich biodiversity of the region and discussed the environmental challenges posed by climate change, deforestation, habitat degradation, and unsustainable human practices.
Hon’ble Mr. Chemit Yurgyal, Secretary District Legal Services Authority, Kargil delivered a detailed talk on spiritual awareness and the safeguarding of the environment. He emphasized the deep connection between nature and spirituality, highlighting that the protection of the environment is not only a social and legal responsibility but also a moral and spiritual duty of every individual. The address focused on the importance of respecting natural resources, preserving biodiversity, and maintaining harmony between human beings and nature. Students were encouraged to adopt environmentally responsible practices in their daily lives and to promote awareness regarding conservation within their communities. Further, Advocate Nissar Hussain, Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel, Kargil addressed the students regarding environmental laws, constitutional provisions related to environmental protection, and the role of citizens in safeguarding biodiversity.
Moreover, Dr. Zakir Hussain, Assistant professor, Department of Zoology focusing on the ecologically fragile region of region, delivered an informative talk highlighting the unique environmental challenges, including climate change, loss of biodiversity, water scarcity and increasing environmental degradation due to human activities. He emphasized the urgent need for sustainable practices and collective responsibility to protect the delicate ecosystem of the region. Interactive sessions were also organized during the programme where students shared their views, experiences, and suggestions regarding biodiversity conservation. The tour concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Zakir Hussain, Assistant professor, Department of Zoology, GDC Kargil expressing gratitude to the Secretary District Legal Services Authority Kargil, Govt Degree College Kargil administration, faculty members and students for their active participation and support in making the programme successful. The programme successfully created a platform for meaningful interaction between students, faculty members and legal experts. On reaching Shagaran area, refreshments were distributed by DLSA Staff Members and Para Legal Volunteer’s among the participants before returning to the college campus in the evening.
Overall, the educational tour to Fokar on International Biodiversity Day proved to be highly informative, inspiring, and impactful. The programme not only enhanced environmental awareness among students but also strengthened their understanding of biodiversity conservation, legal responsibility, and sustainable living practices. The event reflected the commitment of District Legal Services Authority, Kargil and Government Degree College, Kargil toward promoting environmental education and community engagement for the protection of nature and biodiversity.
