Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, May 15

A three-day national symposium on avian biology and bird conservation began on Thursday at the Shalimar Convention Centre of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, bringing together ornithologists, researchers and wildlife experts from across India.

The ‘National Symposium on Avian Biology (NSAB 2026)’ is being organised by the university’s Division of Wildlife Sciences in conjunction with the seventh meeting of the Association of Avian Biologists in India (AABI).

Organisers said the event, being held in Kashmir for the first time, would continue until May 16 and focus on recent developments in avian research, Himalayan ecosystems, conservation challenges and emerging approaches in ornithology.

The symposium also aims to explore the role of bird-based ecotourism, biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihood generation for local communities.

Addressing the inaugural session, Organising Secretary and Head of the Division of Wildlife Sciences Khursheed Ahmad highlighted the importance of avian research and conservation in the context of nature-based livelihood opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir.

Raihana Habib Kanth, who attended the event as chief guest, said the symposium aligned with the university’s “One Health Approach” aimed at promoting sustainable and inclusive development.

Renowned ornithologist Asad R Rahmani shared his experiences in bird research and conservation in India and abroad, while stressing the need to identify new research priorities in response to changing environmental conditions.

He also encouraged researchers to develop skills necessary for proactive wildlife management.

Taej Mundkur spoke on conservation challenges related to wetlands and migratory bird habitats, particularly along the Central Asian Flyway.

Anand S Dixit highlighted the role of long-term ecological monitoring and collaborative conservation networks in protecting bird species and habitats.

During the inaugural session, organisers also released an abstract book of the symposium and screened a documentary on radio-telemetry-based research on the ibisbill bird species in Kashmir.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sajad A Gangoo.