Srinagar, Oct 25 (JKNS): Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javid Ahmad Rana, on Saturday described Forest Guards as the region’s “Green Ambassadors” and emphasized their role in protecting the Valley’s forests, calling it a shared responsibility of all.
As per news agency JKNS, the programme began with a guard of honour, followed by the parade of trainees alongside contingents from the Forest Protection Force Bandipora and the J&K Police Band. Principal Divinar Singh Pal presented the annual report, highlighting training modules, field assignments, and the critical role of Forest Guards in ensuring ecological security through effective forest management and community participation.
Minister Rana, as per JKNS, referred to forests as the region’s “green gold” and said their protection is a collective responsibility. He urged the newly trained Forest Guards to act as green ambassadors on the ground, maintain vigilance, and coordinate with local communities to safeguard forest wealth, noting that forest personnel often work under challenging field conditions.
He also announced that the Kashmir Forest Training School will be upgraded into a Forest Training College to enhance training standards and overall institutional development. Rana encouraged the trainees to uphold their responsibility toward environmental protection and the trust placed in them by the department and society.
The event concluded with awards presented to trainees who excelled during the training programme. (JKNS)
