Army, Ladakh Administration sign MoU for snow leopard conservation on World Wildlife Day

In a significant step towards wildlife conservation, the Fire & Fury Corps of the Indian Army and the Forest, Ecology & Environment Department of the Union Territory of Ladakh signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday to protect the region’s fragile ecology and conserve endangered species, including the Snow Leopard.

The agreement was signed on World Wildlife Day in the presence of Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Fire & Fury Corps, and Ashish Kundra, Chief Secretary of UT Ladakh.

The MoU seeks to promote sustainable development and environmental protection in Ladakh’s high-altitude ecosystems under the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection (GSLEP) framework. The initiative aims to conserve key wildlife species such as the snow leopard, Himalayan wolf, bharal (blue sheep), ibex, marmot and the black-necked Crane, along with their natural habitats.

As part of the collaboration, a joint snow leopard conservation cell will be established to monitor and coordinate conservation efforts in the region. Officials said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding Ladakh’s rich biodiversity while ensuring sustainable practices in ecologically sensitive border areas.

The Indian Army, which maintains a significant presence in the high-altitude terrain of Ladakh, reiterated its commitment to balancing national security responsibilities with environmental stewardship. The initiative is expected to create a framework for adopting eco-friendly practices while strengthening conservation measures in one of the world’s most delicate mountain ecosystems.

The agreement marks a collaborative effort between defence and civil authorities to ensure that wildlife protection remains a priority alongside development and security imperatives in the region.