Media Centre North Circle- Jammu & Kashmir Forest Department

07/11/2025

Conservator of Forests inspects Forestry Works in Kehmil Forest Division

Kupwara,November 07,2025 — The Conservator of Forests (CF), Kashmir North Circle, Irfan Ali Shah undertook an extensive tour of the Kehmil Forest Division, Kupwara covering areas in the Ramhal,Nihari and Keran Ranges today. The inspection aimed to review ongoing forestry works, inspect infrastructural assets, and interact with the field staff.The CF was accompanied by Faisal Farooq Divisional Forest Officer Kehmil, Javed Ahmad Range Officer Ramhall Range, Shafiq Ahmad Range officer Naihari, Bashir Ahmad Range officer Keran and other concerned officers.

The CF did Inspection of the Gulgam Seed Nursery area where Selection of the site for the New Forest Division Campus was discussed and finalized. The CF directed for immediate preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the new campus development. Later the CF did inauguration of the newly constructed Block Forest Officers Hut at Trehgam. “This office will help redress the greviances of general public in Trehgam and adjoining areas”, the CF informed.

The CF also reviewed the afforestation works carried out under Green India Mission in Kachama Forest of Naihari Range and assessed the progress of afforestation and Soil and Water Conservation works.

Mr Shah also inspected the Forest Check post Panzgam and reviewed on the spot its functioning. He also made a welfare visit to the residence of Abdul Majeed, a brave Forest Guard who was injured during fire-fighting operations in Farkhiyan Top Forests some days back, underscoring the department's concern for its frontline staff.

The team also visited Compartment No 27/Budnambal and launched winter plantation drives in the CAMPA Plantation Unit being raised this year to address issues of degraded forest in this area. The CF also inspected the ongoing Boundary Pillar installation work in the Panzgam Zoonreshi Forest, a crucial step in securing forest land.The tour concluded with an inspection of the Range Office cm Residential Quarter at Reddi near Chowkibal.

The Conservator of Forests (CF), also undertook a crucial inspection tour of the Keran Forest Range focusing on the development of vital infrastructure and securing forest boundaries near the Line of Control (LoC).The CF inspected the newly constructed Block Officers Hut at Pathra Forest, ensuring the quality and readiness of the facility. He also reviewed and inspected the ongoing upgradation work in the Forest Rest House, Keran, giving necessary directions for the timely completion of the project to improve accommodation facilities.A significant part of the visit included the inspection and finalization of the site for the construction of a new two-bedroom Block Officers Hut at Keran, strategically located on the banks of the River Kishanganga near the Line of Control (LoC). This new construction is aimed at providing robust residential facilities for the staff posted in this remote and sensitive area.Late evening The Conservator inspected the ongoing work of Boundary Pillar installation in various forests across the Keran Range. He emphasized the critical importance of completing this demarcation work promptly to prevent encroachment and secure the forest land effectively.

The CF praised the efforts of the local forest staff for their dedication in working under challenging circumstances in the border area and stressed the need to maintain vigilance over forest resources.

01/11/2025

31/10/2025

LG J&K Honours Conservator of Forests,Others in Grand Ceremony at SKUAST-K

31st October,2025– The Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Jammu and Kashmir, Sh Manoj Sinha today presided over a solemn and celebratory function at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Shalimar Campus, to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the 'Iron Man of India'.

The event, which was organized on the theme "Unity in Diversity and Celebrating Cultures ,Connecting Hearts " saw the LG felicitate several distinguished citizens of Kashmir for their outstanding contributions to public and social life.

In a highlight of the ceremony, the Conservator of Forests, North Kashmir, J&K Forest Department, Sh Irfan Ali Shah, an Indian Forest Service officer of J&K cadre was presented with a prestigious Certificate of Appreciation for his meritorious public and social services, particularly in the realm of environmental and Forest conservation.

The LG also felicitated other prominent personalities, including famous santorist Abhay Sopori, Advocate Sibghat Rahim, Dr Satinder Singh Kala Additional Advocate General, J&K High Court , famous doctor Dr Latif Khan, Advocate Umar Rashid, Mr Ajay Gupta, Mr Manzoor Anjum acknowledging their selfless service to the community.

In his address, the LG lauded the exemplary efforts of all the awardees, stating their commitment to public service perfectly embodied the nationalistic spirit of Sardar Patel. The awardees were presented with a symbolic brass memento depicting Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a tribute to the statesman who unified the nation.
"Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of a united and integrated India remains our guiding light," the LG remarked. "This ceremony, held on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary, is a testament to the fact that his principles of unity, grit, and public service are alive in the hearts of our citizens, be they forest officers, doctors, or lawyers."

The function witnessed a large and distinguished gathering, including Dr Nazir Ahmad Vice Chancellor SKUAST Kashmir,Deans of Faculties and Heads of Departments (HODs), Dr Sajad Ahmad Gangoo Dean Students Welfare SKUAST K, Senior Bureaucrats, Enterpreuners and businessmen,Members of the medical and engineering fraternity (Doctors and Engineers), Students, Teachers, , Lawyers and media fraternity. Representatives from civil society, including the famous National level NGO BHARAT BHARATI including Sh Jagan Nath National President, Sh Irfan Ahmad, Former member Haj committee of India and various local environmental NGOs including Rahim Foundation Sopore, Gauhar Foundation, PEACE Foundation Kulgam also participated in this mega event.

The diverse participation underscored the program's core message of bringing together different sections of society—from academia and administration to civil society and frontline professionals—to work towards the common goal of a strong, united, and prosperous nation.

14/10/2025

North Forest Circle Launches Major Green Drive and 'Plastic Free Forest' Campaign in Tribute to Shaheed Forester

MAGAM, Handwara, October 14, 2025: The Langate Forest Division Handwara of North Forest Circle today successfully organized a deeply meaningful Environmental Awareness Programme and Plantation Drive at Poshnar Forest Magam to commemorate the supreme sacrifice of Martyr Shaheed Ghulam Nabi Sheikh, Forester. The event served as a potent convergence of environmental advocacy and a solemn tribute to the dedication of the forest frontline personnel.

The programme was marked by the presence of Sh. Irfan Ali Shah, IFS, Conservator of Forests Kashmir North Circle Sopore, and Miss Rakshanda Vishwanath, Noted Environmentalist. It commenced with a profound two-minute silence observed in honor of the late Shaheed Ghulam Nabi Sheikh.

The dignitaries initiated a Ceremonial Plantation at Chornar-Poshpora (Compartment 67,68/Magam Block Bakhihakar Forest). This act symbolized a renewed and unwavering commitment to nurturing the environment, the noble cause for which the Martyr laid down his life.

The main segment, the Environmental Awareness Session, witnessed significant interaction with the local community and media fraternity. Sh. Mohd Shafi Mir, Chairperson & National Motivational Speaker & Change Maker, delivered an inspiring address, focusing on the need for transformative change in environmental attitudes.Sh. Sahil Pathan, Selection Committee Member, My Yuva Bharat( MY Bharat),Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, provided valuable perspectives on youth engagement and environmental issues.Sh. Ihazaz Ahmad Pajwari, DFO Langate, detailed the division's dedicated efforts in forest conservation and protection.

Miss Rakshanda Vishwanath, Noted Environmentalist, delivered a powerful and urgent message on community involvement in environmental safeguarding.

Sh. Irfan Ali Shah, IFS, Conservator of Forests Kashmir North Circle Sopore, in his address stressed upon the paramount importance of protecting forest resources and paying rich tribute to the sacrifice of the Martyr.While speaking to media, he said, “Shaheed Ghulam Nabi Sheikh laid down his life in the line of duty, a testament to the selfless courage and unwavering dedication of the Forest officers and officials who protect our forests. The two-minute silence we observed was not just a pause in the day's proceedings, but a moment to internalize the profound cost of conservation and to honor his memory. He epitomizes the ultimate forest protector, and his sacrifice will forever inspire us to be more vigilant and resolute in our mission”

The welcome address was given by by Sh. Sajad Hussain Khawaja and concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks proposed by Sh. Mubashir Ahmad Bhat, Range Officer Magam.

Following the session, Miss Rakshanda Vishwanath flagged off a Plastic Free Forest Campaign and Swachhta Drive Rally.

The day's commitment to environmental action extended to the Rajwar area, where a second Environmental Awareness Programme was organized at Yamand Rajwar Forests, Handwara. This included a dedicated plantation programme and interactive session with the local forest community, underscoring the importance of grassroots participation.

In the evening, a plantation programme was carried out with Army Brigade Artillery Unit in Boniyar Range, Jhelum Valley Forest Division, Baramulla in collaboration with Forest Department and local forest fringe community.Mr Sofi Farhaan Range officer conducted interaction proceedings

13/10/2025

Forest Department and Environmentalist Rakshanda Vishwanath Flag Off 'Plastic-Free Forests' Campaign in Baramulla

Baramulla, 13th October, 2025 :The J&K Forest Department, Kashmir North Circle in collaboration with noted Environmentalist Ms. Rakshanda Vishwanath from Mumbai, successfully organized an impactful Environmental Awareness Programme at Sangri Van Forests Baramulla today.

The programme commenced with a symbolic Ceremonial Plantation by Ms. Vishwanath, along with Sh Irfan Ali Shah ,the Conservator of Forests, Kashmir North Circle,who planted saplings, underscoring the vital importance of afforestation.

A key highlight of the event was the Flagging off of the Plastic Free Forests Campaign and Swachhta Drive Rally, which saw enthusiastic participation from forest officials, local community members, and media fraternity, carrying banners and pledging to keep the forest areas free from plastic waste.

The main segment of the program was the Environmental Awareness Session and Interaction which began with a Welcome address by Shri Rameez Raja, Range Officer, Baramulla Range.

The audience was captivated by the address of Ms. Rakshanda Vishwanath, the Noted Environmentalist, who shared her insights on climate change, the impact of consumerism on nature, and practical steps for grassroots environmental protection.

The concluding address was given by Irfan Ali Shah ,Conservator of Forests, Kashmir North Circle, who reiterated the Forest Department's unwavering commitment to forest protection and community-centric conservation models. He said “The J&K Forest Department is firmly dedicated to fostering a partnership with the local populace. Conservation is not a task for the government alone; it is a movement that requires the active participation of every individual. Our frontline staff is working tirelessly, but their efforts are amplified manifold when supported by informed and proactive communities.”

Senior Forest officers, personnel of Forest Protection Force, NGOs, Civil society members, Tribal community leaders, locals, school children participated in large numbers in the event.

10/10/2025

J&K Police Collaborates with Forest Department for Capacity Building Training on SOPs in North Kashmir

Baramulla, October 11,2025: A specialized two-day training program for the Forest Frontline officers of the Forest Territorial and Forest Protection Force concluded successfully at the District Police Lines, Baramulla. The training focused on equipping the Forest personnel with the necessary skills and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for effective vehicle checking and frisking.

The inaugural day emphasized the Role of Forest Guards in Enforcement, particularly their duties related to vehicle inspections. A key module covered the Legal Aspects of enforcement, providing a comprehensive overview of relevant legislation, including the Indian Forest Act, the Wildlife Protection Act, and the Arms Act.

Significant time was dedicated to practical training modules on vehicle checks, focusing on techniques for Identifying Contraband. Forest personnel were trained on methods for spotting and seizing illegal items such as illegally harvested timber, wildlife products, and unauthorized weapons. The importance of meticulous documentation and maintaining accurate records during every vehicle check was also stressed.

Day two concentrated on safe and lawful Frisking Techniques and Safety Protocols. The session thoroughly covered the Legal Boundaries, ensuring personnel understood the limits and legality of personal searches. Staff were trained in safe, respectful, and procedural methods for conducting searches.

Crucial elements of the training included strategies for handling resistance and managing confrontational situations professionally. The afternoon sessions focused intensely on Safety and Communication, covering the use of protective gear, enhancing Personal Safety through situational awareness, and ensuring Team Coordination through effective communication during operations.

The training culminated in intensive Mock Drills, where participants engaged in simulated scenarios to practically apply their newly acquired knowledge on vehicle checks and frisking procedures in a controlled environment.

The Chief Conservator of Forests , Kashmir Shri Irfan Rasool said” I am delighted to announce the successful conclusion of a landmark training program, a collaborative effort with the J&K Police, aimed at significantly bolstering the capacity of our frontline staff in the North Forest Circle. This joint program was crucial. It has equipped our officials with better policing and legal acumen, transforming them into more effective enforcement agents. The integrated approach ensures that when we challenge forest offenders, we do so not just with conviction, but with watertight legal and operational strength”

While speaking to media the Conservator of Forests North Kashmir Irfan Ali Shah said “ This specialized training was organised with collaboration of J&K Police Department and is a significant step in bolstering the capacity of the Forest Territorial and Forest Protection Force to curb illegal activities and better protect the region's valuable forest and wildlife resources. The enhanced understanding of SOPs, legal frameworks and safety measures will ensure their operations are executed with maximum effectiveness and strict adherence to the rule of law. I thank J&K Police Department especially DIG North Kashmir and SSPs of Baramulla and Kupwara Districts for their full support to this capacity building program and in supporting Forest Department in protecting Forest and Wildlife resources in North Kashmir”

08/10/2025

Sheetal Nanda Reviews ongoing Development works in Forest Sector

Srinagar, Kashmir | October 8, 2025 — Sheetal Nanda, Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Ecology, and Environment Department, today held a high-level review of the progress on ongoing development works being executed across the Union Territory in the Forest and allied sectors at Forest Headquarters , Sheikh bagh, Lal Chowk Srinagar.The review focused on initiatives under various schemes including CAPEX, Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS), and Green India Mission (GIM).

The Commissioner Secretary exhorted officers to ensure that all schemes, especially the Centrally Sponsored Schemes, are implemented in "letter and spirit." She laid stress on intensifying plantation drives and expediting financial bookings especially under CAPEX Budget throughout the districts.

During the detailed review many issues were discussed threadbare including District-wise physical and financial achievements for the year 2024-25 and 2025-26 under various Centrally sponsored schemes. Also detailed discussion was held on the funds received, expenditure incurred, utilization certificates submitted under CSSs/CSs (2024-25). She also reviewed the Annual Plan of Operations (APOs) approved and funds received for the year 2025-26 as well as work-wise physical and financial progress under UT CAPEX budget (2025-26), Updated progress in respect of budget announcements for the year 2025-26 were also discussed. Latest status of approved projects under Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) was also reviewed.

The Commissioner Secretary issued strict directives for the timely ex*****on and quality delivery of all departmental projects. All departments under the Forest umbrella have been instructed to ensure that a minimum of 70% of all planned works—including infrastructure upgrades, afforestation and other conservation efforts are completed by December 2025.

The Commissioner Secretary directed that winter plantation activities must commence immediately in temperate zones of UT. This initiative will cover degraded forest areas, urban green spaces and community lands. Implementing agencies were urged to immediately expedite the installation of Boundary Pillars (BPs) for forest land demarcation as well as in wetlands across UT, to ensure legal protection and clarity of forest boundaries. Recognizing the potential of Ecotourism in promoting sustainable livelihoods, the Commissioner Secretary instructed that all pending Nagar Van (Urban Forest) projects must be finalized and made operational by December 2025. She said” These projects aim to create accessible green spaces in urban areas, fostering community engagement and biodiversity conservation.”

The meeting underscored the need for enhanced inter-departmental coordination and proactive field-level ex*****on. Departments were also encouraged to maintain transparency, adopt modern monitoring tools, and actively engage local communities in plantation and conservation efforts. The Commissioner Secretary reiterated the government’s commitment
to ecological preservation, sustainable development, and climate resilience through community-driven forestry initiatives.

The meeting was attended by key officers and officials, including Sh Suresh Kumar Gupta, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) & Head of Forest Force (HoFF), Shri Sarvesh Rai, Chief Wildlife Warden, J&K, Shri Vasu Yadav, Chairman Pollution Control Committee, Sh Sandeep Kujur, Director Social Forestry J&K, along with all Chief Conservators of Forests (CCFs) including Sh Irfan Rasool ,Director Finance (Forest), Conservators of Forests (CFs) including Sh Irfan Ali Shah, Regional Directors (RDs) and Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs) of both the regions.

05/10/2025

PCCF inspects Karnah Range, Kehmil Forest Division Kupwara

Kupwara,04-10-2025:The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force (HoFF), J&K, Shri S. K. Gupta, undertook an extensive tour of the Karnah Range under the Kehmil Forest Division Kupwara today, to inspect various infrastructure projects, review forestry works and interact with field staff and locals .

The PCCF inspected the Forest Rest House (FRH) TP near Bungus Valley and the Sadhna Top forest area, assessing the protection and maintenance of key forest assets. He also reviewed the status of boundary pillars installation and Soil Conservation works being executed in various places in Karnah, emphasizing the need for robust forest demarcation and Soil and moisture conservation measures. Further inspections were carried out at the Block Officer's (BO) Hut at Teetwal. He also inspected and reviewed the Trek route development from Teetwal point to Simari,last village in Karnah .
PCCF gave directions for development of Ecopark in Karnah and upgradation of Forest Rest House Teetwal .

The visit also included a review of greening initiatives, particularly the progress on the plantation in various Compartments like Co 21/kh, 32/kh and 33/ Kh and beautification drive around religious places of importance, including the Sharda Peeth temple in Teetwal and the Jamia Masjid in Karnah.

During his visit, the PCCF held interactions with Army Commanders stationed in the area, seeking their continued support and collaboration for accelerating greening and plantation activities, particularly in vulnerable and border areas.
While reviewing the progress of strategic roads, border area tourism, and pilgrim tourism, Shri Gupta underscored the role of the Forest Department in facilitating sustainable development without compromising ecological integrity.

Addressing the forest staff, the PCCF directed them to adopt a people-friendly administrative approach and focus on sustainable forest development, ensuring the local community benefits from forest conservation and eco-tourism initiatives.The Conservator of Forests North Circle Sh Irfan Ali Shah briefed the PCCF about the Ecotourism and Greening initiatives taken in the area under various development schemes in recent months.

The PCCF was accompanied by a team of senior officers, including Shri Irfan Rasool, Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir; Shri Irfan Ali Shah, Conservator of Forests, North Circle; Shri Faisal Farooq, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Kehmil Forest Division; the Deputy Director, Forest Protection Force (FPF), Kehmil; Shri Shamsul Haq, Range Officer, Karnah; Shri Javed, Range Officer, Ramhall; and other Block Forest Officers.

21/09/2025

Chief Secretary leads Plantation Drive in Baramulla under SEWA PARV, Commends Green Initiatives

BARAMULLA, September 20, 2025 – J&K Chief Secretary, Sh. Atal Dulloo, today participated in the 'Sewa Parv' program, held at Dak Bungalow Baramulla as part of the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" (One Tree for Mother) initiative. The event, which focused on environmental conservation and afforestation, saw the planting of several conifer saplings.

The Chief Secretary was joined by several key officials, including Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Sh. Minga Sherpa (IAS),Sh. Maqsood Ahmad(IPS)and Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Baramulla, Sh. Zahid Ahmad. Officers from the district administration also took part in the planting drive.

Sh. Dulloo lauded the tireless efforts of the Forest Department, particularly in the North Forest Circle for their significant contributions to the greening of Jammu and Kashmir. His appreciation underscored the importance of such initiatives in combating climate change and promoting a sustainable environment. He also inspected various awareness stalls set up by various Departments including Forest Departments stall where he was briefed about functioning of Van Dhan Kendra Baramulla and generation of livelihoods for Tribal communities by Forest officials.

The Conservator of Forests, North Forest Circle, Sh. Irfan Ali Shah,(IFS) while talking to the media said “This program encourages individuals to plant a tree in honor of their mother, symbolizing life, nurture, and growth, thereby linking personal values with environmental responsibility”

20/09/2025

CoF reviews working of Forest Department in North Circle

The Conservator of Forests (CoF) North Forest Circle (NFC), Irfan Ali Shah(IFS)reviewed working of Forest Department in North Forest Divisions of Kamraj, Kehmil, Langate and JV falling in Kupwara and Baramulla districts in a meeting held at North Forest Headquarters, Sopore

The CoF interacted at length with the Forest Officers and Forest officials on various Deliverables, schemes and Government programs in forestry sector including Green J&K Drive, Green India Mission, Har Gaon Hariyali, Non Timber Forest Products policy implementation, livelihood and income generation projects,Forests for recreation, fodder, livelihood, development of eco-tourism etc.

The CoF said "Green India mission is one of the missions that come under the umbrella of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). Every country has an obligation to arrest the downward spiral of climate change.Hence, India as a responsible growing global power took up the responsibility of reducing the deleterious effects of climate change by launching different missions under NAPCC.Accordingly Green India Mission was launched here in the year 2021 to protect, restore and enhance forest cover”

He said our focus is to increase the quality of degraded moderately dense forests and to ecologically restore open forests which have suffered degradation here due to different reasons.

The CoF had a detailed discussion on making Green J&K Drive Program of the Government a success in North Circle. He made detailed assessment of sapling plantation targets achieved during the last plantation season, including species-wise distribution and survival rates.Review of community participation and engagement in the drive, emphasizing the role of Village Forest Committees (VFCs) and local residents was also done. He also reviewed the plans for the upcoming plantation drives and other programs especially under ongoing SEWA PARV program, identifying priority areas and target beneficiaries and stakeholders including schools, public institutions, roadside avenues etc

Mr Shah also reviewed the specific eco-restoration projects in Khazanmati Kralpora and Veerwan Baramulla Stone quarry areas. It was informed that DPR for Eco-restoration has been submitted for approval of the competent authority and these projects will be launched this year only which will leading to -restoration of this erstwhile stone quarry site ,generate livelihoods and give further push to biodiversity conservation efforts in North Forest Circle.

Speaking on the occasion, the Conservator of Forests reiterated the department's dedication to preserving the rich biodiversity and natural heritage of Baramulla and Kupwara. "Our concerted efforts under the Green J&K Drive, coupled with robust forest rehabilitation and eco-restoration measures, are vital for ensuring the ecological security and well-being of our region," said the Conservator. "We are pleased with the progress made so far and remain committed to working closely with District Administration, local communities and stakeholders to achieve our environmental goals. He thanked the District Administration Kupwara and Baramulla for their support to Forest Department in these initiatives in District Kupwara and Baramulla.

He said in tune with Government initiatives on generation of livelihoods, the Forest Department in the last two years is also focusing on an increase in forest-based livelihood incomes for hundreds of households in and around the forest areas.

The meeting among others was attended by Divisional Forest Officers of JV, Kamraj, Langate and Kehmil Forest Divisions, Range officers , and Forest officials from North Forest Circle headquarters and Forest Divisions.

18/09/2025

Forest Department initiates Seva Parv Program in North Kashmir

As part of the nationwide Sewa Parv celebrations (17th September – 2nd October, 2025), the Forest Department's North Forest Circle, under the leadership of Conservator of Forests, Irfan Ali Shah (IFS), has launched a comprehensive program of environmental initiatives in Sopore. The campaign kicked off with a plantation drive at the Mazbugh Army Camp of the 22 Rashtriya Rifles (RR).

Around 50 saplings of different conifer and fruit trees, including Deodar, Cypress, Hardy, and Albizzia, were planted within the camp premises. The Conservator of Forests highlighted the importance of these plantations in urban and peri-urban areas, emphasizing their role in climate mitigation, soil stabilization, biodiversity enrichment, and combating environmental stresses like floods and cloudbursts.

Shah noted that Sewa Parv is a nationwide effort to promote collective responsibility towards society and nature. He added that the Forest Department has created a detailed calendar of events for the campaign, which includes plantation drives, awareness programs, cleanliness initiatives, and community outreach events across the twin districts of Baramulla and Kupwara.

Divisional Forest Officer Kamraj, Owais Farooq, spoke about the crucial support from the armed forces. He stated that the Army has been a key partner in eco-restoration and environmental improvement efforts, especially in ecologically sensitive areas. Their involvement, he said, not only increases the scale of these campaigns but also inspires public participation and environmental consciousness.

The event was attended by Deputy Director Forest Protection Force Baramulla, Javid Rahim Malik; Major of 22RR Mazbugh, Fayaz Ahmad; Range Officer Special Range Sopore, Rayees Ahmad; and other officers and staff from the Forest Department and Forest Protection Force.

Pertinent to mention plantation drives, Forest cleanliness drives, Environmental awareness lectures, plastic free and polythene free forest campaigns, environmental rallies etc are being organised in all the Forest Divisions of North Kashmir and in all the Tehsils and District Headquarters including Karnah, Keran, Matchil, Bungus, Langate, Handwara, Kupwara town, Baramulla, Uri, Boniyar, hygam etc and will conclude on 2nd October 2025.All DFOs,Range officers, Block officers, Forest Guards and office staff are participating in these nationwide celebrations.

Educational institutions, Army, Police, Forest Protection Force, Social Forestry Departments all are in collaboration with Forest Department in North Kashmir for the collective cause of Forests and Environment