KATHUA: In continuation to Green J&K drive, the Department of Social Forestry celebrated 70th Van Mahotsav cum Plantation drive at Gidwa Chak, Kathua. The event was attended by Sarpanchs, Panchs and progressive farmers of Kathua and Samba districts besides senior officers of Forest and allied wings of the Department. During the plantation drive, around 2600 saplings of different broad leaved, shade bearing and fruit bearing species were planted.
The function was started with plantation of a ceremonial tree sapling by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Suresh Chugh who appreciated the role of Social Forestry Department in increasing the Green cover of the state for clean and healthy environment. Meanwhile, an interactive session with the members of Panchayati Raj Institutions was also organised in which Director Social Forestry Department, Neelu Geera highlighted in detail the devolution of Powers and functions to the participating PRI members, with regard to Social Forestry.
A ceremonial cheque of an amount of Rs. 7.30 lakh was also presented to the Chairman, Village Plantation (Protection & Management) Committee- Palail. The function was organized under the overall guidance and supervision of Regional Director, Social Forestry Department, Jammu, Dr. Kumar, M.K and was attended by a number of senior officers including Chief Conservator of Forests, Jammu, Sameer Bharti, Conservators and DFOs.