Mini marathon promotes wildlife conservation in Lahaul and Spiti

As part of the 73rd district-level Wildlife Week celebrations, a mini marathon was organised in Lahaul and Spiti district today, starting from the Deputy Commissioner’s office and ending at the Willing Bridge. The event aimed to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and ecological balance.

Lahaul and Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana flagged off the marathon, participating in the race herself to motivate residents to protect wildlife and maintain cleanliness. She interacted with participants, particularly children, to inspire greater community involvement.

Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar, SP Mayank Chaudhary, and Officer Commanding Ravi Shankar, along with other officials, also joined the event. The marathon winners included Anshuman in the men’s category, with Ashish and Khushvinder Thakur in second and third places, respectively. In the women’s category, Tamanna Khan won first place, followed by Sonam Chhokid and Rinchen Dolma.

Following the race, MLA Rana announced a Rs 10 lakh allocation under the Chief Minister’s Forest Extension Scheme for planting trees in Karadang village. A 3.5-hectare area will see the plantation of kail, deodar, and seabuckthorn saplings. Rana emphasised the importance of women’s involvement in this initiative and urged villagers to actively participate in the care of these plants.

Addressing human-wildlife coexistence, she remarked that the increasing wildlife population could benefit tourism and create job opportunities. Concerns about wildlife damage were also discussed, with assurance that the forest department has developed effective relief and rescue measures.

Additionally, a painting competition saw Vanshika Sen, Tamanna Khan and Diwanshi as the top three winners.