Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs Javid Ahmad Rana on Wednesday called for balancing development with environmental protection in the Himalayan region, stressing the need for sustainable and inclusive growth.
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, Rana said development must meet human needs without compromising ecological balance.
“Mother Earth has enough to offer for everyone’s need, but not for anyone’s greed,” he said, congratulating SKUAST-K on organising the event and highlighting the role of civil society in advancing sustainable development.
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.
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 and improved interdepartmental coordination.
He stressed the need to address unplanned and unregulated development and promote ecological responsibility through education.
Dr Rajan Kotru, Counsellor at the Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI), presented the summit report, highlighting recommendations from six technical sessions to inform further refinement of the draft policy.
Other speakers emphasised the importance of inclusivity, equity, indigenous knowledge and community participation in shaping sustainable development strategies for the Himalayan region.
The three-day summit concluded with a call for stronger coordination between scientific research and policymaking to protect mountain ecosystems while improving the well-being of communities dependent on them.
