Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 5: In the wake of COVID-19 pandemic Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation (TRCF) today appealed to the migratory Gujjar and Bakerwal communities to suspend their bi-annual seasonal migration till the end of ongoing lockdown.
As per tradition, the migratory nomadic tribes start the seasonal migration in the first week of April every year, undertaking 40 to 45 days of travel to reach upper reaches in search of greener pastures.
“The tribal population is urged to delay their seasonal migration at least up to April 14 in view of the present lockdown imposed by the government and stay at home for their safety and security,” TRCF founder Javaid Rahi stated in a handout.
He also asked the tribal population to follow social distancing and avoid all type of religious, cultural and social congregations and rituals.
“The temperature is on rise in the plains of Jammu region and the nomadic Gujjar, Bakerwal, Gaddi and Sippi tribes, as per their tradition, are set to start their seasonal migration with their herds of buffaloes, cows, horses, goats and sheep towards the upper reaches of Shivalik, Pirpanjal and Trikuta mountains in greater Himalayas,” the handout further stated.
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