As these high-altitude meadows face threats from climate change, erratic rainfall, and unsustainable land-use, urgent attention is needed. This session will explore the rich traditional ecological knowledge of Himalayan communities and their role in conserving these fragile ecosystems. It will also examine current policies, community-led conservation efforts, and climate-resilient strategies for safeguarding Bugyals. Emphasis will be placed on promoting sustainable tourism and responsible grazing. The session invites students, researchers, policymakers, and the general public to engage in meaningful dialogue and action.

• Understand the role of Bugyals in water retention, spring recharge, and glacier-fed river systems.
• Examine how rising temperatures, erratic precipitation, and land-use changes are degrading Bugyals.
• Highlight the traditional ecological knowledge of local communities in managing meadow ecosystems.
• Discuss conservation policies, community action, and climate-resilient practices to protect alpine meadows.
• Encourage sustainable tourism and responsible grazing practices to preserve Bugyals and their water functions.
• Target audience / who should join: Student / academicians/ policy makers/ general public

• Students and researchers in environmental science, ecology, and climate studies
• Policymakers and government officials involved in conservation and land-use plannin 
• NGOs and community-based organizations focused on mountain and water resource managemen 
• Practitioners promoting sustainable tourism and pasture management
• General public interested in Himalayan ecology and climate resilience