With Rs 157 Cr conservation plan, J&K Forest Dept targets 40 lakh saplings under CAMPA

JAMMU: Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, J&K Forest Department, Suresh Kumar Gupta, today chaired the 36th meeting of the Executive Committee of J&K to review implementation of Annual Plan of Operations for 2024-25 and formulate and consider the APOs for 2025-26 under CAMPA scheme.

PCCF & HoFF, Suresh Kumar Gupta elucidated the contribution of CAMPA in achieving the target of planting 150 lakh saplings under the programme “Ek ped maa ke naam” during 2024-25. He further highlighted various ongoing works like stabilization of slopes along highways and building of infrastructure for frontline staff. He also referred to the works being undertaken for protection of forest lands through installation of boundary pillars and fencing of vulnerable forests.

Chief Executive Officer, CAMPA, T Rabi Kumar, made a brief presentation highlighting the progress on implementation of the approved Annual Plan of Operations (APOs) 2024-25, covering actions taken on the decisions of the EC in its last meeting and proposed APOs for the next financial year 2025-26.

Regarding next year’s APOs, a total of about 4500 ha area has been proposed to be afforested with planting of about 40 lakh saplings including beating up of causalities through assisted natural and artificial regeneration. A special emphasis is being given for soil and moisture conservation measures including construction of DRSM, crates and water harvesting structures in the APOs. Planting of local species and a mix of indigenous fodder species has been proposed to augment the fodder supply.

The Wildlife Protection Department has proposed a number of protection and conservation measures. These included improvement of wildlife habitat, soil and water conservation works, management of protected areas, creation and maintenance of animal rescue centres, eco-development activities and development of wildlife related infrastructure. The APOs also included construction and maintenance of official accommodation for frontline staff like Guard huts, Block Office and Range Office.

After detailed discussion on all aspects of the proposals, the Executive Committee considered the proposed Annual Plan of Operations for FY 2025-26 with an outlay of about Rs. 157 crore. The EC recommended the proposal for approval of the Steering Committee for onward submission to the Government of India, Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change for final approval.
Senior Officers from the Forests and allied Departments including PCCF (Wildlife)/Chief Wildlife Warden, APCCF (P&P) CCF/Nodal Officer (Forest Conservation Act) and Financial Advisor & CAO O/O PCCF & HoFF besides special invitees including Director, J&K FRI, Director, SFD/S&WC Department, Director, EERS, CCF, Kashmir and CCF, Jammu, participated in the meeting.