Leh: Hundreds of young minds across Ladakh turned their classrooms into spaces for conservation today, as students took part in a series of creative, knowledge-based and awareness activities marking the second day of Wildlife Week 2026. From quizzes and wildlife-themed posters to environmental pledges, traditional folklore, bird photography and public awareness at Leh Market, the day brought the message of wildlife conservation directly to schools and communities.
Observed under the theme “Connecting Habitats, Thriving Wildlife,” the “School Activities Day” was organised by the Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment, UT Ladakh, engaging students from schools located within the Protected Areas of Ladakh. The initiative placed young people at the centre of the Wildlife Week celebrations, highlighting their role as future custodians of Ladakh’s fragile ecosystems and rich natural heritage.
The first half of the day saw enthusiastic participation in poster-making and quiz competitions at Government Schools in Partapur, Chushul and Thiksay, where students showcased their creativity and knowledge of Ladakh’s wildlife, habitats and conservation needs. At Thiksay, students from five participating schools took part, with Government Higher Secondary School, Chuchot Shamma securing first position, followed by Government Higher Secondary School, Shey, and Government Higher Secondary School, Thiksay.
At Chushul, the quiz competition at Government Higher Secondary School saw Nalanda House secure first position, followed by Vikramshila House and Taxila House. At Partapur, students and teachers from Government Higher Secondary School, Partapur; Government High School, Hunder; Government Middle School (Boys), Diskit; and Government Middle School (Girls), Diskit actively participated in the activities.
Adding an important environmental dimension to the day, students at Durk Padma Karpo School Leh, Delhi Public School Leh, Government Higher Secondary School Chushul, Government Higher Secondary School Thiksay and Government Higher Secondary School Partapur also took an Environment Pledge during their school assemblies.
Wildlife Stories and Bird Photography Draw Public at Leh Market
The conservation message moved beyond school campuses in the evening, as Leh Market became a vibrant public space for wildlife awareness, storytelling and photography. The session was conducted by Dr Phuntsog Dolma, Wildlife Consultant, Wildlife Division Leh.
A special wildlife folklore storytelling session by Padma Shri Shri Murup Namgail captivated the audience with traditional stories and songs, highlighting the deep cultural connection between the people of Ladakh and its wildlife.
The evening also featured a wildlife and bird photography exhibition organised by the Wildlife Conservation and Birds Club of Ladakh in collaboration with the Department. Club founder Mr. Vishudha shared the journey of the Club and its work in documenting Ladakh’s avifaunal diversity. The Club has so far identified 469 bird species of Ladakh.
The exhibition and storytelling session attracted local residents, Ladakhi visitors, and domestic and international tourists, reflecting growing public interest in Ladakh’s wildlife and natural heritage.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajesh S IFS, Addl Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, UT Ladakh, highlighted Ladakh’s rich biodiversity and emphasised the collective responsibility of protecting its unique wildlife, habitats and ecological systems.
The programme concluded with a poem on the Black-necked Crane, presented by Ms Rohini Dixit, a young professional from the wildlife team of the Department, adding a local and conservation-oriented message to the evening proceedings.
The second day of Wildlife Week brought together students, teachers, conservation practitioners, local communities and visitors, creating a shared platform for learning, participation and dialogue. The day reinforced the message that conservation is strengthened when awareness moves beyond institutions and becomes part of everyday community life.
Through classrooms, cultural traditions and public spaces, Wildlife Week 2026 is giving Ladakh’s conservation message a wider voice, connecting people with habitats so that wildlife can thrive
