The prime goals of setting up this centre is conservation, restoration of Himalayan ecosystems and creating livelihood. The project also aims at conservation of elusive snow leopards and various other endangered Himalayan species.
He also said that the conservation of snow leopards will promote winter tourism in Uttarakhand. He further mentioned that mountainous regions of Uttarakhand are home to various species of wildlife, which are centre of attraction for tourists. So, efforts are required to conserve these extinct species.
In the meeting, it was informed that a number of snow leopards have been spotted in Uttarkashi and Pithoragarh districts; however, the actual figures are unknown. Based on several researches, it is concluded that Uttarakhand is home to 86 snow leopards at present.
Besides the conversation centre, Uttarakhand is also under process of developing six city forests to expand green area in urban regions. The Uttarakhand forest department has announced plans to develop city forests in Kumaon region, two in the plains and four in hilly districts. According to the officials, the aim of developing forests in the city is to increase the green cover in urban regions and to connect people with greenery and clean environment.
The regions have been identified as Dehradun, Nainital, Almora, Bageshwar, Pithoragarh, and Champawat.
