ABOUT US
BACKGROUND
Kargil district in the Union Territory of Ladakh in the Indian Himalaya is home to a rare and endangered species of brown bears known as the Himalayan Brown Bears and the region of Drass (which is a sub division of Kargil) has probably the highest concentration of these bears. For various reasons including access to anthropogenic food sources, human encroachment of habitat and climate change, there has been a steady increase in the number of conflict cases between humans and Himalayan Brown Bears when they try to intrude human habitations which often results in livestock depredation, raiding of grains and damage to property, and in some cases retaliatory killings of the animal itself. Therefore, our mission at the trust is to:
- Mitigate Human-Himalayan Brown Bear conflict through various short-term and long term strategies
- Create awareness and educate the local communities about conservation
- Build livelihood capacity for the local community through wildlife tourism & allied activities
- Develop policy and advocate for wildlife conservation through research
OUR OBJECTIVES
The Himalayan Brown Bear Trust (HBBT) is dedicated to addressing the urgent need for conservation efforts focused on the endangered Himalayan Brown Bear population. Our mission combines research, community engagement, livelihood development, and educational initiatives to ensure the long-term survival of this iconic species while empowering and supporting local communities.
Aim and Objectives of the Trust:
- Wildlife Research and Conservation: Supporting wildlife research and conservation efforts through financial and technical assistance, particularly in Kargil district.
- Conflict Mitigation Strategies: Implementing proven, short-term conflict mitigation strategies at the grassroots level to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
- Network Building: Creating a robust network of national and international scholars, researchers, wildlife experts, and local community members to foster collaboration.
- Knowledge Exchange: Organizing international seminars and workshops to facilitate knowledge exchange on wildlife conservation and conflict mitigation.
- Ecosystem Preservation: Promoting habitat revival, waste management, and other ecosystem protection measures to support long-term conflict mitigation.
- Educational Materials: Developing awareness resources such as films, books, comics, and other educational materials for local children, youth, and international audiences.
- Collaborations and Partnerships: Harnessing national and international collaborations to raise funds and mobilise resources for conservation efforts.
- Capacity Building: Training local community members as wildlife spotters, naturalists, and eco-friendly homestay owners through capacity-building programs, skill development workshops, and exposure tours.
- Awareness and Education: Conducting awareness and education programs for local children and youth to foster a sense of ownership and pride in their land and natural heritage.
- Career Counseling in Eco-Tourism: Providing career counseling for local youth to explore opportunities in eco-tourism and other sustainable livelihood sectors.
Through these initiatives, HBBT aims to create a balanced approach to wildlife conservation that prioritises both the survival of the Himalayan Brown Bear and the well-being of the local communities that share its habitat.
WHERE WE WORK
The Project area focussed in the Kargil district, Union Territory of Ladakh
Kargil is located at an altitude of approximately 2,676 meters above sea level. As per the 2011 census, Kargil has a population of around 140,000, spread across its diverse valleys such as Suru, Drass, Batalik, Wakha-Mulbekh, Nindum. Nestled between the Greater Himalayas and the Zanskar Range, Kargil experiences a high-altitude cold desert climate characterized by harsh winters with temperatures plummeting to as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius. The region enjoys four distinct seasons: spring (March–May), summer (June–August), autumn (September–November), and winter (December–February). The Shingo La and Pensi La passes link Kargil to neighboring valleys, while the mighty Suru and Zanskar Rivers add to its geographical significance. Kargil’s forests are predominantly temperate and alpine, dotted with willows, poplars, and junipers. Known for its historical Silk Route connections, Kargil today stands as a vibrant cultural and trade center in Ladakh, offering a unique blend of traditional lifestyles and breathtaking landscapes.