Impact of India Occupation on biodiversity decline in Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir
Impact of India Occupation on biodiversity decline in Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir
Abstract:
The region of Jammu and Kashmir is a habitat of
numerous species of flora and fauna. This study expounds the quality and
quantity of biodiversity in this region . The main concern of this study is the
role of Indian occupation on multiple native species in this respective region
. Since Indian occupation the danger of extinction is imminent .Some species
are on the verge of extinction . This study is the product of scientific
methods to evaluate the figurative data , interviews from some locals having
knowledge of biodiversity and field research with highly equipped methods .This
research leads us to the causes of endangerment regarding biodiversity , loss
of habitat ,over exploitation of resources and the spread of invasive species
are the primary causes of destruction of bio cycle and the biodiversity in this
occupied region .The whole study explains the biodiversity in this respective
region of IOJK , threat to biodiversity , effect of Indian occupation on
biodiversity and how to protect the natural habitat .
Introduction:
First of all biodiversity is the marvel of nature
which regulates the whole environment . Biodiversity is all the different kinds
of life you’ll find in one area—the variety of animals, plants, fungi, and even
microorganisms like bacteria that make up our natural world. Each of these
species and organisms work together in ecosystems, like an intricate web, to
maintain balance and support life. So biodiversity is the ultimate reason for a
controlled environment . The basic processes of life include organization,
metabolism, responsiveness, movements, and reproduction . The food web is the
basic process of sustenance of ecosystem and endangering of habitat is the main
reason behind the collapse of the whole ecosystem.
Secondly this study evaluates the scientific and
cultural importance of biodiversity. The scientific importance of biodiversity
is not behind the veil ,it is quite visible in this study . The food web and
food chain are the most important processes for a good ecosystem . Biodiversity
is the epitome of natural discipline. As the scientific importance is concerned,
it is the oxygen for the whole ecosystem .This is like a chain, so every genus
is a part of it. If the habitat of one genus is destroyed, the verge of
extinction for many species are imminent .
Now we talk about the cultural importance of the
biodiversity of nature . The flora and fauna are the insignia of some regions .
Like Kashmir musk deer or many other species are the identity of this region .
In the course of history , people have natural affiliation with these species
of flora and fauna . So many customs are affiliated with these artifacts of
nature . The flora of Himalayan Kashmir comprises about 3054 species . So this
area is like a market for many medicinal and aromatic plants . Many
pharmaceutical companies and perfume industries collect their samples from this
region . This region provides the best climatic conditions for these types of
plants . These plants and animals are the representation of this region .
Since 1947 ,the Indian occupation effected this
natural habitat of many plants and animals because they use the process of
exploitation in every manner . Since
occupation, Indian government amplifies the problems in the guise of their own
benefits .The non friendly policies of Indian government tear down the natural
habitat of many species . These policies include the construction of dams ,
military infrastructure ,construction of roads and other exploitation of the
natural resources . The Indian government made this region a war zone which
severely effects the biodiversity in this region .
Research Gap
As Indian occupied Kashmir is the conflict zone and war zone due to which the access for the research is the main hiccup in scientific manner. The impact of Indian occupation on biodiversity is a pure topic of scientific research. Indian occupation has crucially effected the research setup of this region due to which the research on this topic is very limited.The data analysis of both biomes the flora and fauna Species in this region clearly declines due to Indian occupation. There is not a significant data analysis on this topic.
The lesser ground of research on the human and wildlife interaction also causes problems for the researchers in collecting data. Global warming is also the reason behind the literature gap because it is a worldwide issue. It affects the epistemological prospect of this topic.
Fauna
The animal life has been disturbed due to this Indian
Occupation some of the rare species like snow leopard ,black bear and some rare
birds life like Himalayan monalare in danger.
Fauna Species effected by Indian occupation:
Hangul Deer (Cervushanglu):The Hangul deer, native to the Kashmir Valley, is critically endangered. Its population has been affected by habitat loss due to deforestation and development.
Markhor (Capra falconeri):The Markhor, a wild goat species found in the region, has faced threats from habitat loss and illegal hunting.
Snow Leopard (Pantherauncia):The snow leopard inhabits mountainous areas in Jammu and Kashmir. The disruption caused by conflict and habitat alteration poses a threat to this endangered species.
Black Necked Crane (Grus nigricollis):This migratory bird species visits the Ladakh region in winter. Disturbances in wetland habitats and changes in climate can impact their populations.
Saussureacostus (Costus):This medicinal plant, native to the region, has faced overharvesting due to its economic value, which can impact its sustainability.
Red Fox (Vulpesvulpes) and Asiatic Black Bear (Ursusthibetanus):These are among the many species affected by habitat loss, human-wildlife conflicts, and disruptions in their natural habitats
Flora
Indian occupied
Jammu and Kashmir is home to more than 3800 species of plants it includes the
rare medical herbs and aromatic plants.
Flora species effected by the Indian
occupation in IOJK
Aquatic Plants:Aquatic flora in wetland areas, including various aquatic grasses and species like Nymphaea spp. (water lilies), can be impacted by changes in water quality and habitat degradation.
Endemic Alpine Flora:The high-altitude alpine flora of the region, with unique and often rare species, can be vulnerable to habitat disturbances and climate change.
Saussureacostus (Costus):Costus is a medicinal plant native to the region. Overharvesting due to its economic value has threatened its sustainability.
Cedrusdeodara (Deodar Cedar):The Deodar Cedar, a majestic tree, has been harvested for its timber, affecting its populations in some areas.
Paeoniaemodi (Himalayan Peony):This beautiful flowering plant is native to the Himalayan region but faces habitat degradation due to construction and development.
Taxusbaccata (European ):The European Yew, a coniferous tree, has been exploited for its bark and needles in traditional medicine practices.
Aconitum heterophyllum (Atis):Atis is a medicinal plant whose overharvesting for its roots has raised concerns about its conservation.
Rheum spp. (Rhubarb):Several species of rhubarb grow in the region and are harvested for medicinal purposes, which can threaten their populations.
Habitat Alteration:Construction of infrastructure, urbanization, and the expansion of military bases have led to habitat loss and fragmentation, affecting wildlife populations.
Resource Exploitation:Economic activities associated with occupation, such as timber harvesting and mining, have led to the overexploitation of natural resources, including forests and minerals
Pollution:Increased industrialization and urban development can result in pollution of air and water, harming both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
Human-Wildlife Conflict:Displacement and migration of human populations due to conflict has lead to conflicts with wildlife as communities encroach on natural habitats.
Climate Change:Global climate change, driven by factors beyond the region, is altering local ecosystems, impacting the distribution and behavior of flora and fauna.
Effects:
Decline of BiodiversityThe impact of habitat destruction, resource exploitation, pollution and deforestation has led to a decline in biodiversity. Some species are endangered or on the brink of extinction.
Deforestation:Logging by Indian occupied forces and illegal timber mafia has led to a great extent of deforestation in Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Disruption of Ecosystem Services:Biodiversity decline has affected vital ecosystem services that are clean water provision, pollination, and soil fertility, which are essential for human well-being.
Mining and infrastructureThe construction of dams, roads and railways has resulted in habitat fragmentation and its adverse effects on biodiversity in region.
Threats to Endemic Species:The region is home to several endemic species, and their populations are particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and fragmentation.
Military activity: Heavy military presence in the region has led towards pollution and habitat destruction their military exercises make it difficult for wildlife to reproduce
Altered Migration Patterns:Climate change and habitat changes affect the migration patterns of birds and mammals, leading to potential imbalances in ecosystems.
There are many Organizations working in the vicinity
of Indian occupied Kashmir regarding biodiversity. Following are the
organizations:
Organizations working on biodiversity in
Kashmir
Wildlife Department of Jammu and Kashmir:The state wildlife department plays a crucial role in conserving wildlife and their habitats. They are responsible for the management of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and protected areas in the region.
The Mountain InstituteThis non-profit organization has been active in the Himalayan region, working on conservation and sustainable development projects. They focus on community-based approaches.
Kashmir Environmental and Social Watch (KESW):KESW is an NGO based in Jammu and Kashmir that works on environmental and social issues, including biodiversity conservation
Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF):NCF, based in India, has conducted research and conservation efforts in the Western Himalayas, which includes parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE):ICFRE conducts forestry research and education, including research related to biodiversity conservation in forested areas of Jammu and Kashmir.
UNDP India:The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been involved in projects related to sustainable development and biodiversity conservation in the region.
Conclusions:
The Indian occupation of Jammu and Kashmir has had a
devastating impact on the region’s biodiversity. The occupying forces have
engaged in a number of activities that have led to the loss of habitats, the
extinction of species, and the degradation of ecosystems.
One of the most significant impacts of the
occupation has been the militarization of the region. The presence of a large
number of troops has led to the clearing of forests and other habitats to make
way for military installations. This has displaced wildlife and destroyed their
natural homes.
The occupying forces have also engaged in
overexploitation of natural resources. This includes the overfishing of rivers
and lakes, the overgrazing of grasslands, and the excessive logging of forests.
This has led to a decline in the populations of many species, including fish, birds,
and mammals.
In addition, the occupying forces have polluted the
environment with their activities. This includes the dumping of waste, the use
of pesticides and herbicides, and the construction of dams and other
infrastructure. This pollution has further degraded ecosystems and made it
difficult for wildlife to survive
The impact of the Indian occupation on biodiversity
in Jammu and Kashmir is a serious concern. The decline of biodiversity has a
number of negative consequences, including the disruption of food chains, the
spread of diseases, and the loss of natural resources. It is important to take
steps to protect the region’s biodiversity and to ensure that the occupation
does not further damage the environment
Biodiversity in Jammu and Kashmir:can be protected
by reducing the militarization of the region, reducing pollution, protecting wildlife , Promoting sustainable use of natural resources, and creating
awareness of biodiversity in public.
By taking these steps, we can help to protect the
biodiversity of Jammu and Kashmir and we can make sure that the region’s
natural heritage is preserved for future generations.
REFERENCES:
Dar, Ghulam Hassan, and Anzar A. Khuroo. 2020.
Biodiversity of the Himalaya: Jammu and Kashmir State. Springer Nature.
Research Articles:Impact of unorganized devolpment on environment and biodiversity of Jammu and Kashmir
(Ujjvala Ramesh karande)
Fluid landscapes, sovereign nature (sage)
Websites
•
www.google.com
•
www.greaterkashmir.com
www.jkwildlife.com
Written :By Uzair
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