Nowshera, Feb 22: A tour programme was conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department in Nowshera Forest Division under the leadership of the Chief Conservator of Forests, Jammu, Dr. V. S. Senthil Kumar. He was accompanied by the Conservator of Forests, West Circle, Rajouri, Sat Paul.
The visit was undertaken in connection with the Khair Awareness and assessment Programme for formulation of the next ten-year Khair Management Plan with the proposed felling cycle from 2027–28 to 2036–37.
In Nowshera Forest Division, the Chief Conservator of Forests visited Sunderbani Range along with the Divisional Forest Officer, Nowshera, Shweta Deonia, DCF accompanied with field functionaries and staff of the department.
An interactive session was held with local farmers of 35 Villages and other stakeholders like Ex-PRI Members, prominent villagers regarding the forthcoming ten-year Khair Management Plan wherein farmers are at the centre stage for Khair trees assessment in their private land holdings and the data proposed by them will be used for formulation of Khair Management Plan to be implemented from 2027–28 to 2036–37.
ADC Sunderbani, Ramkesh Sharma alongwith other revenue officers/officials was also present on the occasion. The field staff distributed Khair Assessment Forms among the farmers to facilitate systematic data collection and ensure participatory planning.
On the occasion, Dr. V. S. Senthil planted a sapling in Nagar Van Charnote, symbolizing the department’s commitment towards environmental conservation and promotion of indigenous species. The Chief Conservator of Forests emphasized the importance of scientific assessment, transparency in management practices and active community participation to ensure sustainable management of Khair resources and long-term ecological balance. The programme concluded with directions to the field functionaries for timely completion of the assessment process and effective coordination with local stakeholders.
