International Snow Leopard Day 2024 was celebrated in Jomsom with the theme “Empower Communities: Protect Snow Leopards,” emphasizing the critical role of local communities in the conservation of this endangered species. The event was organized through a collaborative effort between the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Jomsom, Teka Samuha Nepal, and the Snow Leopard Conservancy.
The celebration began with a conservation rally, which started at Puthang Airport and concluded at Janahit Secondary School. The rally saw enthusiastic participation from students and conservation educators from both Janahit Secondary School and Dhaulagiri Boarding School. Students carried banners and raised awareness about the importance of snow leopard conservation, drawing attention to the fragile ecosystems in which these elusive cats thrive.
After the rally, an interactive session was held at the meeting hall of Janahit School. The program featured discussions on the critical role of local communities in protecting snow leopards, focusing on sustainable conservation strategies and the importance of community empowerment in preserving biodiversity.
Organizers highlighted the need for increased education and awareness to foster a sense of responsibility among local populations, particularly those living in snow leopard habitats. The discussions emphasized that community-led conservation efforts, combined with scientific research, can create a sustainable model for protecting snow leopards.
In his opening remarks, a representative from NTNC stressed the importance of collaboration between conservation organizations and local communities. He acknowledged the significant contributions of the local people in protecting snow leopards and their habitat and urged continued engagement to secure the future of these majestic animals.
The theme “Empower Communities: Protect Snow Leopards” underlines the importance of community-based conservation initiatives. It recognizes that the long-term survival of snow leopards depends on empowering local communities to take ownership of conservation efforts and benefit from ecotourism and sustainable development.
This year’s International Snow Leopard Day brought together students, educators, and conservationists to renew their commitment to the protection of this endangered species. Snow leopards, which are found in the high-altitude regions of Nepal, play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of their habitats, making their conservation crucial for the overall health of the mountain ecosystems.
The event concluded with a call to action for more local engagement and collaboration in snow leopard conservation, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at the beauty and importance of these elusive creatures.
Source: NTNC ACAP Jomsom
