World Bio-Diversity Day celebrated in Jmu: WLP Deptt launches “PARTHENIUM BIO CONTROL” in protected areas

Jammu : Department of Wildlife Protection J&K Saturday launched “PARTHENIUM BIO CONTROL” in protected areas, using biocontrolagents. An Awareness programme on World Bio-Diversity Day was also organised to mark the Day.
Parthenium known as congress grass (locally known as Jadi) is a weed which has spread throughout the length and breadth of the country andencroached important landscapes like agriculture fields, wasteland, forests and protected areas.
Parthenium is known for its negative impact on the health of animals and humans notably for its pollen allergy and allelopathic impact on soil micro flora and fauna.
In agriculture fields, parthenium weed is eradicated through integrated weed management using chemicals and natural amines. However, in forest and protected areas use of chemicals is prohibited hence, control of this menacing weed remained a management hurdle both for foresters/protected area managers.
In a first of its kind attempt, the department of Wildlife Protection, in collaboration with the SKUAST-Jammu, is exploring possibility of eradicating parthenium weed using its natural biocontrol agent i.e. Mexican beetle (zygogrammabicolorata) in Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary based on success it could be extended to other protected areas.
After the release of Beetle-both grub and adults feed on parthenium leaves/plants, preventing it from attaining full maturity seed setting and further multiplication.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forest/Chief Wildlife Warden, Suresh Kumar Gupta informed the students, general public and participants about the need for using biocontrol agent for habitat improvement without use of chemical pesticides.
Dr. R.K Gupta eminent entomologist highlighted the benefits of partheniumbiocontrol and other natural agents that can be explored for controlling other weed species such as lantana etc.
During the biocontrol launch, 2000 beetles were released in the degraded grassland area of Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary and similar such successive release on same site will be carried out for next few months during the monsoon season and the similar approach will be followed up in next year for ascertaining its effectiveness in wild areas. The bio control agent is proven to feed only on parthenium and does not affect others and animals. It is very much likely that beetles will eradicate parthenium without any negative impact and the affected area will either naturally or under assistance will be aided for growth of natural grasses and herbs.
An awareness programme on World Biodiversity Day, which is observed on 22nd May every year, was also observed.
During the event Sr. Departmental Officials, Scientists, PRI Members, students exchanged their views on the importance of bio-diversity, Eco security and sustainable development.
Speaking on the occasion Dr.Neeraj Sharma, Assistant Professor and In-charge Institute of Mountain Environment University of Jammu spoke about importance of Biodiversity survey, documentation and explained the importance of Protected Areas in conserving Bio-diversity in fast changing land use pattern due to human led activities. Dr Vishal from KrishiVigyan Kendra also highlighted urgent need for biodiversity conservation and rich role played by every living species in maintaining eco-system balance.
Rajananthan Singh, Vice Chairman, DDB and Sudershan Kumar Sarpanch exchanged their thoughts on co-existence with wilderness and role played by local communities in around Protected Areas in protection of wild animals and nature conservation minimising MAC.
Students from SKUAST-Jammu and degree college Kathua presented their views on importance of biodiversity and its conservation from scientific exploration to sustainable harvesting and benefit sharing with local communities.
Programme was organised under the guidance of Dr. Kumar MK, Regional Wildlife Warden Jammu.