Introduction

Jammu and Kashmir is one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the Himalayas. Because of its wide range of altitudes and climates, it supports many different types of plants and animals. The region lies at the meeting point of two major wildlife zones — the Palearctic and the Oriental — which is why its biodiversity is especially rich and unique in India.

For aspirants navigating the rigorous selection processes of the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB), a comprehensive mastery of this subject is not merely an academic requirement but a prerequisite for understanding the administrative and environmental governance of the territory. The following notes provides an exhaustive analysis of the regional ecology, verified against the latest governmental data, economic surveys, and scientific notifications.   

The Administrative and Legal Paradigm Shift Post-2019

The ecological governance of Jammu and Kashmir underwent a seismic shift following the implementation of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019. This legislative milestone led to the transition of the region from a state to a Union Territory, which fundamentally altered the legal framework governing wildlife protection and forest management. Prior to 2019, the region was governed by the Jammu and Kashmir Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978; however, post-reorganization, this was repealed and replaced by the central Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.   

This legal harmonization has integrated Jammu and Kashmir into the national conservation framework, allowing for streamlined access to centrally sponsored schemes such as the “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats” (CSS-IDWH). Under this framework, the territory receives substantial financial and technical assistance for the recovery of critically endangered species like the Hangul (Kashmir Stag) and the Snow Leopard. Furthermore, the reorganization necessitated a formal redefinition of the territory’s biological symbols, as the former state bird—the Black-necked Crane—is now indigenous solely to the Union Territory of Ladakh.   

Definitive Symbols of Regional Identity

The adoption of new UT symbols is a strategic effort to align regional identity with geographical reality. These symbols serve as flagship species and botanical markers for conservation awareness and are a recurring focus in JKSSB general awareness modules.   

The Hangul: The Flagship UT Animal

The Hangul (Cervus hanglu hanglu), or the Kashmir Stag, remains the paramount symbol of the territory’s wildlife. As the only surviving Asiatic member of the red deer family, the Hangul is a critically endangered species whose survival is intrinsically linked to the health of the Dachigam National Park. The population has shown a resilient recovery trend in recent years, reaching 289 individuals in 2023 and 323 in the 2025 census. This recovery is attributed to intensive habitat management, the removal of the Dachigam sheep farm, and the operationalization of the conservation breeding center at Shikargah-Tral.   

The Kalij Pheasant: The New UT Bird

Following the administrative separation of Ladakh, the Jammu and Kashmir administration officially notified the Kalij Pheasant (Lophura leucomelanos) as the new UT bird on October 21, 2021. Known locally as “Wan Kokur” or “wild cock” in Kashmiri, this bird was selected due to its widespread presence across both the Jammu and Kashmir divisions. In Jammu, it is found in the subtropical thickets of Jasrota and Nandini, while in Kashmir, it inhabits the temperate forests of Kazinag and Overa-Aru.   

Botanical Symbols: Chinar and Lotus

The Chinar (Platanus orientalis), or “Booune,” is the official UT tree and is considered the “King of Trees” in Kashmir. Its deciduous nature, particularly the transformation of its leaves to a fiery red in autumn, has deep cultural resonance. The Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) serves as the UT flower, symbolizing purity and representing the aquatic biodiversity of the region’s famous lakes, such as Dal and Wular.   

Analysis of Forest Resources and ISFR Statistics

The forest cover of Jammu and Kashmir is a critical component of its ecological capital and carbon sequestration capacity. The territory manages its forests through ten-year “Working Plans” which are scientifically grounded in the nature of crop density, topography, and sustainable usage requirements.   

India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 Insights

The latest assessments indicate a positive trajectory for forest growth in the region. According to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, the forest cover in Jammu and Kashmir increased from 20,948.27 sq km in 2013 to 21,346.39 sq km in 2023, marking a decadal gain of 398.12 sq km. Between 2019 and 2023 alone, the region recorded a growth of 224.39 sq km.   

Jammu and Kashmir is notable for hosting 43 distinct forest types, the highest diversity for any single state or UT in India. It also records the highest average growing stock in the country at 296.22 cubic meters per hectare and an impressive carbon stock of 174.10 tonnes per hectare. These statistics are vital for policymakers and appear frequently in JKSSB exams concerning the territory’s environmental contribution to national targets.   

Based on the latest data from the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023:

Forest Classification by Altitudinal Zonation

The distribution of flora is strictly dictated by the region’s complex topography. Aspirants must distinguish between the sub-tropical vegetation of the Jammu plains and the alpine flora of the Kashmir highlands.   

1. Sub-Tropical Forests: Predominantly found in the Shivalik hills and lower Himalayas (below 1,500m). Dominant species include Teak (Tectona grandis), Sal (Shorea robusta), Shishem (Dalbergia sissoo), and Chir Pine (Pinus roxburghii).   
2. Temperate Forests: Located in the Pir Panjal and Greater Himalayan ranges (1,500m to 3,000m). These are the most economically significant forests, featuring Deodar (Cedrus deodara), Blue Pine (Pinus wallichiana), Silver Fir (Abies spectabilis), and Spruce. Deodar is especially valued for building houseboats in Srinagar due to its rot-resistant nature.   
3. Alpine Forests: Found above 3,500m. This zone consists of Juniper, Birch (Betula utilis), and Rhododendron. The Birch or “Burza” tree was historically used for writing manuscripts.   Alpine Pastures is also known as “Margs”.

Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs): The Herbal Wealth

Jammu and Kashmir is one of India’s 26 biodiversity hotspots, particularly rich in endemic medicinal plants. The region’s ethno-botanical heritage is significant, with hundreds of species used in traditional Ayurveda and Unani systems.   

The “Purple Revolution,” centered on the cultivation of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), has transformed the agricultural landscape of districts like Doda, providing high-value returns for farmers and supporting the aromatherapy industry. This project is a flagship initiative of the CSIR-IIIM, emphasizing the shift from traditional farming to essential oil production.   

Faunal Diversity and Flagship Species Conservation

The fauna of Jammu and Kashmir is remarkably diverse due to its unique location at the confluence of three zoogeographic zones. This variety makes the territory a delight for wildlife enthusiasts and a critical area for conservationists.   

High-Altitude Mammals

The mountains are home to rare ungulates and carnivores that have adapted to extreme cold and rugged terrain.

• Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia): Known as the “Ghost of the Mountains,” it inhabits the high-altitude ranges of Kishtwar and the Greater Himalayas. It is a primary focus of recovery programs under the CSS-IDWH. Its IUCN status is Vulnerable.
• Markhor (Capra falconeri): The world’s largest mountain goat, distinguished by its spectacular screw-like horns. It is found primarily in the Kazinag National Park and the Limber/Lachipora sanctuaries.  Its IUCN status is Near Threatened.
• Himalayan Musk Deer (Moschus cupreus): A shy, solitary animal found in the sub-alpine forests. It is heavily poached for its musk pod, used in perfumery, which has led to its endangered status.   
• Himalayan Black Bear and Brown Bear: The black bear is common in the lower forested valleys, while the brown bear is restricted to the high-altitude alpine meadows. IUCN status of Himalayan Brown Bear is Critically Endangered.

Avifauna and Migratory Flyways

Jammu and Kashmir serves as a critical stopover and wintering ground for birds on the Central Asian Flyway. The arrival of nearly 400,000 migratory birds in sites like Hokersar and Wular is a major annual ecological event.   

• Resident Pheasants: Besides the Kalij, the region is home to the Himalayan Monal, Western Tragopan, and Koklas Pheasant. The male Monal is renowned for its iridescent multi-colored plumage.   
• Migratory Waterbirds: These include Mallards, Common Teal, Pintail, Greylag Goose, and Gadwall. Peak populations often exceed 3.82 lakhs in recorded seasons.   

The Protected Area Network: A Strategic Breakdown

To safeguard this biodiversity, Jammu and Kashmir has established a comprehensive Protected Area Network (PAN) comprising 4 National Parks, 14 Wildlife Sanctuaries, and 30 Conservation Reserves, covering 4,817.46 sq km.   

National Parks of Jammu and Kashmir

National Parks are areas of high ecological significance where human activity is strictly prohibited except for scientific research.   

Note: Hemis National Park, though historically associated with J&K, is now part of the UT of Ladakh.   

Prominent Wildlife Sanctuaries

Wildlife Sanctuaries allow limited human activity while protecting the habitat of specific species.

1. Overa-Aru (Anantnag): Spanning 511 sq km, it is the largest sanctuary in J&K. It is a birder’s paradise and hosts the Hangul and musk deer.   
2. Gulmarg (Baramulla): Located in the Pir Panjal range, it is famous for its alpine meadows and is home to the musk deer and brown bear.   
3. Hirpora (Shopian): A critical corridor for the Pir Panjal Markhor and the Himalayan black bear.   
4. Jasrota (Kathua): Dominated by bamboo plantations, it is home to barking deer and various migratory birds.   
5. Nandini (Jammu): Known for its high density of pheasants and leopards, it serves as an important ecological buffer near the Jammu-Srinagar highway.   

Wetland Ecology and Ramsar Sites

Wetlands in Jammu and Kashmir are the lifelines of the local economy, supporting fisheries, agriculture, and tourism. Five of these are designated as Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.   

Profile of Ramsar Sites

1. Wular Lake (Bandipora): Designated in 1990, it is the largest freshwater lake in India. It is a vital flood absorption basin for the Jhelum River. Recent restoration has increased its capacity by 6.4 million cubic meters.   
2. Hokera (Hokersar) Wetland (Srinagar/Budgam): Known as the “Queen of Wetlands,” it is a perennial wetland that serves as a massive wintering ground for trans-Himalayan migratory birds. It is the largest bird reserve in Kashmir.
3. Surinsar-Mansar Lakes (Jammu): These twin lakes are unique freshwater ecosystems in the Shivalik range. They hold religious significance and support diverse aquatic flora and fauna.   
4. Hygam Wetland (Baramulla): Notified in 2022, it is part of the Jhelum river floodplain and is critical for resident waterbirds.   
5. Shallabugh Wetland (Ganderbal): Added in 2022, this site covers 16.75 sq km and is essential for maintaining the regional hydrological balance.   

Economic Survey 2024-25 and Environmental Current Affairs

The economic health of Jammu and Kashmir is intrinsically tied to its environment. According to the Economic Survey 2024-25, the tourism sector reached a record 2.36 crore visits, emphasizing the biomass-dependent nature of the regional economy. However, this influx has raised concerns regarding the “carrying capacity” of hill stations and the resulting pressure on biodiversity.   

Key Environmental Initiatives

The UT government has launched several flagship schemes to promote ecological sustainability :   

• Green Jammu and Kashmir Drive: A massive afforestation program aimed at increasing green cover.   
• One Beat Guard-One Village Programme: Empowering local communities in forest protection.   
• Har Gaon Hariyali: Promoting village-level greenery.   
• NTFP Policy 2022: Facilitating the sustainable collection and utilization of non-timber forest produce through Panchayat-level Biodiversity Management Committees.   

The survey also notes that the unemployment rate has declined to 6.1% in 2023-24, with self-employment schemes like JKREGP creating over 85,000 opportunities, many of which are in the horticulture and eco-tourism sectors.     

Quick Review Table for Competitive Exams

Conclusion

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir stands at a crossroads where its immense ecological wealth must be balanced with its burgeoning economic aspirations. The recovery of the Hangul population to 323 individuals and the expansion of forest cover by nearly 400 sq km over the last decade are testament to successful scientific management. However, the challenges of climate change, the high risk of forest fires, and the pressures of mass tourism require a resilient and adaptive policy framework.   

For the JKSSB aspirant, understanding these nuances is critical. Whether it is the scientific classification of the Markhor or the latest statistics from the ISFR 2023, this knowledge forms the backbone of the “General Awareness” section. As the territory continues its “Green Push,” the preservation of its flora and fauna will remain not just an environmental priority, but a pillar of its regional identity and future prosperity. This synthesis of biodiversity, law, and economy provides a holistic view of the territory, ensuring that future administrators are well-equipped to manage the “Crown of India” with ecological wisdom and administrative precision.   

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Sahil Digra

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