In the scenic wetlands near Srinagar, a group of determined women and girls from the Salim Ali Birdwatchers Network is making waves in wildlife conservation by restoring habitats that now support nearly 100,000 migratory birds each season. Their grassroots efforts combine environmental stewardship with education and leadership.
- SABN is Jammu and Kashmir’s first women-led birdwatching network.
- The group’s efforts helped return almost 100,000 migratory birds to Hokersar wetland.
- Members focus on cleanup drives, educational outreach, and bird habitat documentation.
What happened
On the outskirts of Srinagar, the Hokersar wetland has seen a remarkable environmental turnaround thanks to the Salim Ali Birdwatchers Network (SABN), a group composed entirely of women and girls. Formed in January 2025 through a collaboration of local conservation groups, the network established a unified platform for female environmentalists to work in harmony toward restoring wetlands and protecting migratory birds in Jammu and Kashmir.
The 15-member team carries out weekly cleanliness drives, organizes educational tours in schools, and produces informative materials like the book 'Birds of Paradise' compiled by 13-year-old Alimah Hamid. Their collective efforts are bringing back a large population of migratory birds, with recent counts nearing 100,000, a clear sign of the wetland’s rejuvenation.
Why it feels good
This initiative highlights the increasing leadership roles women are taking in Kashmir’s conservation scene, reflecting a broader trend across sectors where women are making meaningful impacts. SABN’s formation fills a critical gap by providing recognition and cohesion to women who had previously worked individually in environmental causes, giving their efforts stronger visibility and influence.
Beyond environmental gains, the network serves as a beacon of empowerment, showcasing how local communities, especially young women and girls, can lead vibrant grassroots movements. Their joy and pride come from seeing tangible results: a cleaner wetland, thriving bird populations, and growing awareness among local youth, who are now better informed about the importance of biodiversity.
What to enjoy or watch next
Looking ahead, SABN plans to expand its educational outreach with resources like Alimah’s book, aiming to reach more schools across Kashmir and inspire future generations of conservationists. Their model of community-led, women-focused conservation offers a replicable template for other regions seeking inclusive environmental stewardship.
Nature lovers and supporters can follow SABN’s work as they continue documenting bird species, hosting birdwatching sessions, and coordinating with conservation bodies to sustain the wetlands. Their journey is a reminder that small, committed groups can spark significant ecological restoration while uplifting women’s roles in science and activism.