Srinagar, Oct 14: Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javid Ahmad Rana, on Wednesday called for responsible and inclusive development of the Himalayan region, stressing the need to balance human needs with environmental protection.
“Mother Earth has enough to offer for everyone’s need, but not for anyone’s greed,” Rana said while addressing the valedictory ceremony of the 13th Sustainable Mountain Development Summit (SMDS) and Jammu and Kashmir Agriculture Science Congress–2026 at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Shalimar.
Congratulating SKUAST-K on organising the event, he highlighted the role of civil society in advancing the vision of Viksit Jammu and Kashmir.
Held from October 12 to 14 under the theme “Contouring Sustainable Himalayan Landscapes for Inclusive Viksit Bharat,” the summit brought together policymakers, scientists, researchers and mountain development experts to discuss climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, ecological conservation and the draft Jammu and Kashmir Sustainable Mountain Development Policy.
A special session featured discussions involving civil society representatives, former government officials and youth, who shared recommendations on the proposed policy to ensure that it addresses diverse stakeholder concerns and promotes inclusive development.
SKUAST-K Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai outlined key provisions of the draft policy, including the classification of four mountain sensitivity zones, integration of 11 policy verticals, tourism within carrying capacity, an affordable green mountain cess and stronger interdepartmental coordination.
He stressed the need to address unplanned and unregulated development and reform education to instil ecological responsibility among future generations.
Dr. Rajan Kotru, Counsellor, Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI), presented the Summit Report, outlining recommendations emerging from six technical sessions. He said the findings would help refine the draft policy.
IMI Secretary Dr. Roshan Rai emphasised that inclusivity and equity must guide Himalayan development, while former IMI president Prof. P. D. Rai said the J&K draft policy could strengthen policy advocacy and offer a framework for other Himalayan states.
Prof. A. H. Mughal, Dean, Faculty of Forestry, SKUAST-K, welcomed the dignitaries and acknowledged IMI’s partnership in organising the summit and preparing the reports. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Khursheed Ahmad Dar.
The three-day event highlighted the importance of linking scientific research with policymaking, indigenous knowledge and community participation to strengthen the resilience of Himalayan ecosystems and communities.
