The International Day of Forests (World Arbor Day) was celebrated worldwide with enthusiasm, highlighting the theme “Forests and Food,” which underscores the critical role of forests in food systems and livelihoods. The Jammu & Kashmir Department of Social Forestry actively participated in these celebrations across the Union Territory, reinforcing its commitment to environmental conservation.
In line with the directives of Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Environment & Ecology, Mrs. Sheetal Nanda, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Sh. Suresh Kumar Gupta, Director Social Forestry, Dr. Sunesh Buxy, Regional Director Social Forestry, Mr. Zahid Aslam Mughal, and DFO Social Forestry Division Kupwara, Mr. Zahoor Ahmad Akhoon, the Social Forestry Division Kupwara organized multiple awareness programs, webinars, seminars, and plantation drives across the district.
A notable plantation-cum-awareness program was conducted at Govt. Higher Secondary School Kandi and Govt. Higher Secondary School Nagri, where Chief Education Officer (CEO) Kupwara, Mr. Mehraj-ud-Din Shah, graced the occasion as the special guest. Officials from the Social Forestry Department, including Range Officers, Block Officers, SFWs, and frontline workers, actively participated, demonstrating their commitment to environmental sustainability.
National Secretary of the Trade Union Coordination Centre and Block Forest Officer Kupwara, Mr. Syed Ghulam Rasool Geelani, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable development, afforestation, and conservation efforts. He highlighted the severe threats posed by climate change and global warming, urging collective action to protect the region’s “green gold.”
CEO Kupwara, Mr. Mehraj-ud-Din Shah, also stressed the importance of transforming afforestation into a people’s movement. He lauded the Social Forestry Department’s relentless efforts in combating climate change and promoting a greener, healthier future.
The event concluded with a strong resolve to continue afforestation and conservation initiatives, ensuring a sustainable environment for future generations.
