towards project snow leopard - Nature Conservation Foundation

66 • Appendix 1
5.2.8. Linkage with the Snow Leopard Network: This is a network spread throughout the
range countries, consisting of individuals and organizations interested and committed
to the conservation of snow leopard habitat. It was felt that the Sikkim Wildlife
Department would benefit by participating in this network.
5.3. Others
5.3.1. Competence based training of staff for snow leopard and high altitude wildlife conservation:
Posting of skilled and interested staff needs to be facilitated to work in the high
altitudes under the PSL. Focused and continued capacity-building of staff is necessary
that promotes skill development. This should be based on competence or individual
interests to whatever extent possible.
5.3.2. Adequate economic and other incentives for staff working in the high altitudes: Based
on constraints detailed in 2.2 and specific shortcomings in 2.3., it is important that
economic incentives are available to staff working in the project areas to assist in
sustaining their motivation.
5.3.3. Provisioning of adequate equipment (preferably in kind), including terrain vehicles:
Similar to point 2.3 above.
5.3.4. Film on high altitude wildlife: The region is among the least known of the country’s
biogeographic zones. It is important that the larger public and decision makers are
able to see and appreciate the unique values of the region and also the department’s
efforts to conserve it. One of the most effective means can be commissioning of
wildlife films for the region.
5.3.5. Awareness programs addressed at different target groups: Focused awareness programmes
directed at target groups such as school children, the military, decision makers, should
be developed and implemented under the PSL.
5.3.6. Early development and operationalization of the Project Snow Leopard: A programme
such as the PSL is long overdue and all efforts should be made to hasten the
development and implementation of the project.
• Co-ordination with the other snow leopard range states and countries and creation
of a National Snow leopard forum for exchange of information.
• Linkage with the Snow Leopard Network.
6. Activities to be Undertaken
6.1. Consultations
6.1.1. Other State Departments (e.g. tribal development, animal husbandry) - at a later
date; spreading awareness and seeking reactions once a relatively comprehensive
document is drafted.