J&K Gujjars suspends their seasonal migrations by one month

The Gujjar Bakerwal tribe have suspended their bi-annual seasonal tribal migrations towards upper reaches of Shivalik, Perpanchal and Trikuta hills of Himalaya by one month  of their routine schedule. The postponement was un avoidable in view of unusual spell of snow and heavy rains which brought down the minimum temperature in hilly areas and damaging tribal routs in Himalayan ranges .

Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation an originations working for Gujjars of Indian States said in normal circumstances the nomadic  Gujjars and Bakerwals starts their seasonal migration towards Himalayas in and around last week of March every year but this year due heavy snowfall they were compelled postponed their onward journey by one month.

According to Dr. Javaid Rahi, National Secretary of Tribal Foundation this natural postponement of seasonal nomadic migrations will definitely effect on the overall poll percentage in tribal belts of Jammu  and Kashmir. He said the Schedule Tribe Gujjars constitute more than 20% population of State and a sizeable population  of this nomadic tribe migrates towards Himalaya every year. Because of this postponement it is  being viewed  that their would be high turn out of tribal Gujjar voters in ensuing parliamentary elections.

Dr. Rahi further added that the main tribal migration routes include Mughal Road, G.T. Road, Jamiya Gali, Gora Batta, Nanansar, Ropadi and Dharhal Pass were badly damaged due to heavy snowfall which needs urgent repairs . The Foundation has also sent two memorandums to Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and Kashmir appealing to have repairs these traditional routes  for migratory nomads,Rahi added.

Owing to postponement of their seasonal migration, they will have to face brunt of heat and shortage of fodder in plane areas he  said and impressed upon that keeping in view this particular situation, the various  organization should mobilize their resources for providing necessary logistical facilities to these nomadic tribes.

The Hindu and Buddhist tribes of the state which include Gaddi, Sippi, Changpa and Brockpa have also postponed their migeration due the situation arises out of natural circumstances, Rahi said.

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