Srinagar: Former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force (PCCF & HoFF), Jammu and Kashmir, Suresh Kumar Gupta retired from service in December 2025, marking the conclusion of what his colleagues remember as a long and distinguished career in the J&K Forest Department.
During his tenure, Gupta served in various senior positions and handled a range of administrative and field assignments across the Union Territory. As PCCF & HoFF, he played a key role in guiding the Forest Department through ecological, administrative and developmental challenges, with a focus on conservation and sustainable management of forest resources Forest Department officials recall.
Officials said his tenure was marked by an emphasis on scientific forest management practices, strengthening mechanisms to prevent illegal felling and encroachments, promotion of afforestation and reforestation programmes, biodiversity conservation, wildlife protection, and initiatives aimed at enhancing climate resilience and sustainable forestry.
Under his leadership, the department also focused on improving administrative discipline, capacity building of field staff, and enhancing transparency and accountability in operations. He consistently encouraged professionalism and public service orientation among officers and frontline staff.
Gupta also laid stress on community participation in forest conservation, promoting Joint Forest Management and awareness programmes to involve local communities as stakeholders in protecting natural resources. These initiatives helped improve coordination between forest authorities and local populations.
Known for his calm demeanor and emphasis on ethical conduct, Gupta is credited with strengthening institutional frameworks within the Forest Department. His retirement was marked by the department acknowledging his contribution to forest governance and conservation in Jammu & Kashmir.
