Forest Department conducts Khair assessment visit in Kathua, Samba divisions

KATHUA: A tour programme of the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department was conducted today in Kathua and Samba Forest Divisions under the leadership of Chief Conservator of Forests, Jammu V. S. Senthil Kumar accompanied by Conservator of Forests, East Circle, Jammu, Pardeep Chandra P. Wahule. The visit was undertaken in connection with the Khair Awareness Programme and assessment exercise for formulation of the next ten-year Khair Management Plan for the proposed felling cycle 2027–28 to 2036–37.

In Kathua Forest Division, the Chief Conservator of Forests and accompanying officers visited Panchayat Dilwan of Kathua Range along with Divisional Forest Officer, Kathua, Ankit Sinha; Anusha Kolli; I/c Range Officer Kathua Range, Neetan Khajuria and field functionaries of the department.

An interactive session was held with local farmers and stakeholders regarding preparation of the forthcoming Khair Management Plan. It was informed that farmers play a central role in assessment of Khair trees on their private land holdings and the data provided by them will form the basis for formulation of the management plan to be implemented from 2027–28 to 2036–37. Khair Assessment Forms were distributed among farmers to facilitate systematic data collection and participatory planning.

On the occasion, the Chief Conservator of Forests planted a sapling of Aegle marmelos (Bael) near Malooh Temple at Panchayat Dilwan, symbolising the department’s commitment towards environmental conservation and promotion of indigenous species.

Emphasising scientific assessment, transparency and community participation, he called for sustainable management of Khair resources to ensure long-term ecological balance. The programme concluded with directions to field functionaries for timely completion of the assessment process and close coordination with local stakeholders.