Kashmir's first female conservationist- Aaliya Mir

Awaz e Khawteen

Aaliya Mir is a Project Manager at Wildlife SOS, an organisation aimed at making changes to protect and conserve India’s natural heritage, forest and biodiversity.

Interest ignited by veterinarian husband

Aaliya has a Masters degree in Mathematics, she was fascinated by wildlife through her husband who is a veterinarian by profession. She met the founders of Wildlife SOS, their work inspired her to learn more about wildlife. Aaliya obtained a diploma in Disaster Management with specific emphasis on animal health. She started her journey working as a volunteer for the organisation, attending workshops, helping with fundraising. She later joined the organisation as an employee undertaking diverse projects in Jammu and Kashmir.

 

Turning her field work into a teaching opportunity

Aaliya heads Wildlife SOS's conservation program in Jammu & Kashmir and she also fulfills the role of Education Officer and conducts awareness workshops to sensitise children and locals. Aaliya always wanted to try her hand at teaching, this job gives her an opportunity at shaping young minds and creating awareness. Aaliya says her job brings her fulfilment and satisfaction as she is able to see tangible changes on ground through her work. Her satisfaction is derived from saving a life from injuries or death.

 

Tackling a men's field.

Aaliya says that her unconventional career choice is even more difficult as her field is heavily dominated by men. She factors in a good and supportive work environment for her success in a male-dominated field. Her tedious journey of making a name for herself has been possible because of a supporting family. She says her family understands the constraints of a demanding career. Her cooperative children push her forward to excel in a competitive field.

 

Understanding man - animal conflict

Aaliya believes in understanding the full extent of the problem. She says wild animals making their ways into cities is due to encroachments on the foothills of jungles and rapid urbanisation. She further proceeds to say that disturbances to wildlife in the name of development disrupts the natural habitat of animals and they are forced to move towards human dwellings.

 

Bringing a human touch to the profession

Aaliya believes in respecting every creation of God, treating them with love and care. She believes a certain level of fear of animals will save us from accidents. Maintaining a respectable distance from animals saves one from injuries and fatalities; and prevents mishandling of animals. She focuses on the point that everything has an intrinsic value in our environment, especially animals. Aaliya believes that wildlife is a keepsake 'amaanat' of future generations and we owe it to our children to safeguard their future. She wants to pass down her experiences to her children by having them breathe in the same ecosystem as hers. She continues to build a future that is sustainable and creates a balance between man and animals.