Forest Dept launches biodiversity, ecotourism and community development in Rafiabad Range

Ziraat Times Team Report

Baramulla: In a new initiative to integrate biodiversity conservation with community development, Irfan Ali Shah (IFS), Conservator of Forests (CoF), North Kashmir Circle, conducted an extensive tour of the Rafiabad Range under Langate Forest Division. The tour aimed to review ongoing forestry development works and unveil a series of strategic initiatives focused on ecological preservation, ecotourism promotion, and rural welfare.

During the visit, Mr. Shah held public meetings and grievance redressal sessions in Hadipora, Ladua, Dharia, and Khamu villages, emphasizing the importance of direct engagement with local communities. At the historic Gurdwara Shaheed Marg in Satarna, Chatoosa forest, he met with Sikh community delegations, patiently listening to their concerns and issuing immediate directions for their resolution.

“These public meetings are the cornerstone of effective governance,” said Mr. Shah. “They help us move beyond paperwork and listen to the people who live in harmony with our forests. Their partnership is vital to our conservation and development efforts.”

Key initiatives launched during the tour include:

• Biodiversity and Medicinal Plant Conservation:
  Directives were issued for the establishment of Medicinal Plant Conservation Areas in Lariangan and Kitterdaji, and the upgradation of the existing center in Khamu. Biodiversity Management Committees are to be made operational in all 44 Gram Panchayats of the Range to support local livelihoods under the Non-Timber Forest Produce policy.

• Ecotourism Promotion:
  New trek routes will be developed in scenic areas like Viji Top, Mundaji, Bosian, and Kitterdaji. The CoF called for Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the creation of new Ecoparks in Lariangan, Daria, and Kangroosa. Homestay programs in collaboration with the Tourism Department and construction of Forest Rest Houses at Darian and Khamoh were also proposed.

• Water Security and Wildlife Management:
  The development of water harvesting structures and Amrit Sarovar sites was directed in collaboration with the Rural Development Department. These structures will benefit both local communities and forest wildlife, especially during dry spells.

• Fodder Banks and Livelihood Support:
  Improved fodder seed varieties will be sown in forest closures to establish fodder banks, aiming to enhance livestock productivity and rural income, in partnership with the Agriculture Production Department.

• Timber and Firewood Accessibility:
  To meet the housing and energy needs of forest fringe communities, the number of ‘Kashmir Notices’ will be increased. Instructions were given for establishing new timber depots at Daria, Khalu, and Hadipora. Firewood supplies will also be improved during winter for bona fide local use.

“Our forests are ecological treasures and lifelines for our communities,” Mr. Shah emphasized. “The measures taken today reflect a holistic vision—balancing conservation with human development and sustainable resource use.”

Mr. Shah was accompanied by key officials including Ehjaj Ahmad (DFO Langate Forest Division), Javed Rahim (Deputy Director, Forest Protection Force), Feroz Ahmad (Range Officer, Rafiabad), block officers, NGO representatives, and community leaders.