Rana reviews Forest Department functioning in South Kashmir; calls for intensified afforestation, rejuvenation efforts
SRINAGAR: Minister for Forest, Ecology & Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the Civil Secretariat to assess the functioning and progress of the Forest Department in Anantnag, Kulgam, and Pulwama districts.
The meeting focused on the status of ongoing initiatives related to afforestation, eco-tourism, soil and water conservation, forest protection, and community participation in sustainable resource management.
Reviewing the achievements so far, the Minister identified priority areas requiring renewed focus and immediate action. Expressing concern over the growing impact of climate change, Rana emphasized the urgent need to expand green cover across South Kashmir. He directed Divisional Forest Officers to prioritize plantation drives and develop detailed, area-specific plans to enhance forest regeneration.
Stressing that the survival and maintenance of plantations are as vital as the plantation itself, the Minister instructed the department to incorporate post-plantation care and monitoring mechanisms to ensure long-term ecological restoration.
Reaffirming the Omar Abdullah-led government’s commitment to forest-based sustainability and livelihood improvement, Rana called for intensified afforestation and rejuvenation drives in all districts. He also underscored the importance of robust Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns to enhance environmental awareness and encouraged active participation from local communities, educational institutions, and NGOs.
The Minister reviewed the status of pending forest clearances for developmental projects and urged the department to streamline approval processes to ensure timely execution of essential works such as water supply, road connectivity, and community infrastructure, without compromising environmental safeguards.
Highlighting the importance of soil conservation and social forestry, Rana said these initiatives are key to preventing erosion, improving groundwater recharge, and supporting forest-dependent communities. He emphasized integrating such efforts within broader climate resilience and rural development programmes.
During the meeting, the Minister also assessed the district-wise implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), stressing timely recognition and documentation of both individual and community forest rights. He directed the Forest Department to maintain close coordination with the Revenue and Tribal Affairs Departments for effective processing and grievance redressal of pending cases.
To promote eco-tourism in South Kashmir, Rana instructed officials to identify and develop new potential destinations, highlighting the vital role of local youth in managing such initiatives. He noted that eco-tourism can generate sustainable employment while fostering awareness and responsibility toward forest conservation.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening forest governance and conservation across Jammu & Kashmir, the Minister called for a balanced approach that harmonizes developmental goals with environmental sustainability.
