Peerzada Sayeed
Kupwara, October 26: Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force (PCCF & HoFF), Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department, Sh. Sarvesh Rai, IFS, conducted a comprehensive two-day inspection of the North Forest Circle on October 25 and 26, during which he reviewed forest developmental works, protection measures, eco-tourism initiatives and various ongoing projects across different forest divisions of North Kashmir.
The inspection tour focused on assessing the progress of departmental infrastructure, strengthening forest protection mechanisms, promoting nature-based tourism and exploring opportunities for sustainable livelihood generation through forest-related activities.
During the visit, the PCCF inaugurated several developmental projects, inspected ongoing construction works, interacted with forest officials and local stakeholders, and reviewed initiatives aimed at preserving the region’s rich natural heritage while promoting eco-tourism.
Inauguration of Forest Check Post and Inspection of Developmental Works
On the first day of the tour, the PCCF visited the JV Forest Division, Baramulla, where he inaugurated the Trumgund Forest Check Post. The check post is expected to strengthen forest monitoring and protection activities while improving the department’s field-level functioning.
He also inspected the ongoing construction work of the Divisional Forest Officer’s (DFO) office at Baramulla and reviewed the progress of the project.
The PCCF subsequently visited the Langate Forest Division, where he laid the foundation stone for the second storey of the DFO office at Langate. The project is aimed at improving departmental infrastructure and providing better facilities for forest officials.
During the same visit, he inspected the Reshwari Eco-Tourism site and took stock of the ongoing initiatives being undertaken to develop the area as a nature-based tourism destination.
Review of Eco-Tourism Initiatives in Bangus Valley
The PCCF’s inspection tour also covered the picturesque Bangus Valley, where he reviewed ongoing eco-development activities in the Dringyari–Bungus area.
The valley, known for its scenic landscapes, meadows and rich biodiversity, has significant potential for sustainable tourism. During the visit, the PCCF assessed the progress of various initiatives intended to improve tourism infrastructure while maintaining ecological balance and protecting the fragile forest environment.
At Lakut Bangus, he inspected the Forest Staff Quarters and the Jungle Training Centre, reviewing the facilities and infrastructure available for forest personnel and training activities.
The PCCF also released a publication titled “Mountain Trails of Kehmil,” which highlights trekking routes, natural landscapes and nature-based tourism opportunities in the Kehmil Forest Division.
The publication is expected to provide valuable information about trekking destinations and promote responsible tourism in the region.
He also inaugurated the Range Office at Ramhall, marking another important step towards strengthening the departmental infrastructure and improving administrative functioning at the field level.
Interaction with Army Officers at Zangli
Later in the evening, the PCCF visited the Army Headquarters at Zangli, Kupwara, where he, along with senior Forest Department officers, held an interactive session with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Army’s 28 Infantry Division and other Army officers.
The interaction focused on issues of common interest and areas of coordination between the Forest Department and the Army.
The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss matters related to forest protection, environmental conservation and cooperation in areas where both institutions have responsibilities and operational interests.
Van Posh Mela Showcases Forest Conservation and Local Livelihoods
On the second day of the inspection, the PCCF visited the Kamraj Forest Division, Kupwara, where he inaugurated the newly constructed Block Officers’ Hut at Batpora.
The facility is expected to strengthen field-level departmental infrastructure and provide improved facilities for forest officers and staff.
The PCCF subsequently inaugurated the Van Posh Mela at Nagri Ware, Hutmulla, an event showcasing the relationship between forest conservation, traditional skills, local livelihoods and eco-tourism.
The mela highlighted the importance of connecting environmental protection with community participation and sustainable economic activities.
A 1.5-kilometre student trekking route was also inaugurated during the programme. Students were flagged off for the trek, providing them an opportunity to experience the natural environment and understand the importance of forest conservation.
The initiative was aimed at encouraging environmental awareness among students and promoting outdoor learning through nature-based activities.
Resham Vann Initiative and Promotion of Traditional Crafts
During the programme, the PCCF also initiated Resham Vann, a mulberry plantation initiative within an existing plantation closure.
The initiative is intended to promote mulberry cultivation and highlight the potential of forest-related activities in supporting local livelihoods.
The event also featured thematic stalls showcasing traditional crafts and products made from locally sourced raw materials.
These included Indigofera-based crafts, wood carving and pottery, with artisans receiving support under the Green India Mission.
The stalls highlighted the importance of preserving traditional skills while creating opportunities for local artisans and communities to benefit from sustainable economic activities.
High-yielding clonal Poplar saplings were also distributed among beneficiaries on the occasion, encouraging plantation activities and supporting the promotion of tree cultivation.
Students Participate in Nature Parliament and Environmental Activities
The Van Posh Mela also featured a nature parliament, environmental skits and presentations highlighting tribal heritage.
The activities provided a platform for students and participants to discuss environmental issues, forest conservation and the importance of protecting natural resources.
The tribal heritage presentation highlighted the cultural traditions and indigenous knowledge associated with the region, while the environmental skits conveyed messages about conservation and responsible use of natural resources.
The programme aimed to encourage greater participation of students and local communities in environmental protection and sustainable development.
Forest Fire Preparedness Reviewed
As part of the inspection, the PCCF attended a forest fire mock drill organised by the Kamraj Forest Division to assess the preparedness of forest personnel for the ensuing forest fire season.
The exercise focused on reviewing the department’s response mechanisms, coordination among field staff and preparedness measures for tackling forest fire incidents.
The mock drill provided an opportunity to assess the readiness of personnel and identify areas requiring further improvement in forest fire prevention and management.
With forest fire incidents posing a significant challenge to forest ecosystems, such exercises are considered important for strengthening preventive measures and ensuring timely response during emergencies.
Two Important Publications Released
During his visit to the Kamraj Forest Division, the PCCF released two publications highlighting forest protection and the natural heritage of the region.
The publications included:
“The Forest Protection Plan of Kamraj Forest Division 2026–27”
“A Portrait of Paradise – The Enchanting Forests of Lolab Valley”
The Forest Protection Plan outlines the division’s focus on forest protection activities for the 2026–27 period, while the publication on Lolab Valley highlights the region’s scenic beauty and forest landscapes.
The release of these publications reflects the department’s efforts to document forest resources, strengthen protection planning and promote awareness about the ecological importance of North Kashmir’s forests.
Senior Forest Officers Accompany PCCF
The PCCF was accompanied during the two-day tour by Sh. Irfan Rasool Wani, Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir; Dr. M. K. Kumar, Chief Conservator of Forests, Central; Sh. Irfan Ali Shah, Conservator of Forests, North Circle; Sh. Owais Mir, Divisional Forest Officer, Kamraj Forest Division; and other senior Forest Department officers and field-level functionaries.
The inspection covered a range of developmental, protection and eco-tourism activities across North Kashmir and provided an opportunity to review the progress of departmental initiatives.
The visit highlighted the Forest Department’s focus on strengthening forest protection, improving infrastructure, promoting eco-tourism, supporting traditional livelihoods and encouraging community participation in conservation.
Through developmental projects, environmental awareness programmes and sustainable tourism initiatives, the department aims to preserve the natural wealth of North Kashmir while creating opportunities for local communities and improving the functioning of forest divisions.
