Kashmir's highly endangered yet largely neglected snow leopard population will be given special protection under a new conservation project aimed at curbing poaching and boosting dwindling numbers. "Project Snow Leopard" is expected to be launched early next year after a meeting of Indian wildlife officials called for urgent measures to protect the wild cat population threatened by poaching and the loss of habitat.

The solitary cats are native to the remote mountain ranges of central and southern Asia, where their population is estimated to be around 7,000. India has between 200 and 600 snow leopards of which around half inhabit Kashmir's Himalayan mountain range at altitudes of about 3,000 metres (9,800 feet).

The cats' pelts command a high price on the international black market.

The degradation of their natural habitat, poaching for their furs, hunting and killings by local people in retribution for attacks on their livestock are some of the main threats officials say.

The project aims to give more money, training and manpower to forest and wildlife departments. Officials will also monitor leopard populations and look at ways to involve local communities in conservation efforts.