Mini Marathon Promotes Wildlife Conservation in Lahaul and Spiti.
Shimla:
The 73rd district-level Wildlife Week celebrations kicked off with a vibrant mini marathon organized at Kelong in Lahaul and Spiti district today. The event began at the Deputy Commissioner’s office and concluded at the Willing Bridge, aiming to raise awareness for wildlife conservation and ecological balance.
Flagged off by Lahaul and Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana, who also participated in the race, the marathon saw strong community engagement, particularly among children, to inspire support for wildlife protection and environmental cleanliness.
Key officials, including Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar, SP Mayank Chaudhary, and Officer Commanding Ravi Shankar, joined the marathon, highlighting the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts.
Following the race, MLA Anuradha Rana addressed attendees, announcing a Rs. 10 lakh allocation under the Chief Minister’s Forest Extension Scheme for tree planting in barren areas of Karadang village. She emphasized the vital role of women in nurturing the saplings, echoing the Chief Minister’s remarks during the state-level Forest Festival.
Rana initiated the tree planting project across a 3.5-hectare area, where Kail, Deodar, and Seabuckthorn saplings will be planted, urging local villagers to participate actively.
In her speech, she discussed the potential for human-wildlife coexistence to enhance tourism and create job opportunities for local youth, while also acknowledging challenges posed by increasing wildlife populations. She assured that the forest department is implementing effective strategies to address wildlife-related damages.
Earlier, Forest Division Officer Aniket Wanwe welcomed MLA Rana and other dignitaries, highlighting various activities planned for Wildlife Week.
Winners of the marathon included Anshuman in the men’s category, followed by Ashish and Khushvinder Thakur. In the women’s category, Tamanna Khan secured first place, with Sonam Chhokid and Rinchen Dolma close behind. A painting competition was also held, with top honors going to Vanshika Sen, Tamanna Khan, and Diwanshi.
