152 Forest Guards pass out from Forest Training School (FTS) Bandipora 

Ziraat Times News Desk

Bandipora:  Minister for Forests, Ecology and Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Saturday hailed forest personnel as the “frontline defenders” of Jammu and Kashmir’s biodiversity while presiding over the passing-out parade of 152 newly trained forest guards at the Forest Training School (FTS) in Bandipora.

The ceremony marked the culmination of training for the 71st and 73rd batches of forest recruits, who were commended for their discipline, commitment, and endurance. Minister Rana urged the new forest guards to dedicate themselves to safeguarding the region’s green assets against forest fires, encroachments, and illegal exploitation.

“Our forests are not merely natural resources; they are lifelines that sustain water, climate, livelihoods, and cultural heritage,” the Minister said, emphasizing the ecological and moral responsibility of forest conservation.

Government’s Focus on Sustainable, People-Centric Conservation

Highlighting the Omar Abdullah Government’s commitment to sustainability and community empowerment, Rana said that long-term conservation depends on involving forest-dependent and tribal communities in protection and benefit-sharing.

He outlined key initiatives to achieve this vision, including:

• Community forestry programmes to strengthen local participation.

• Green job schemes to promote sustainable livelihoods.

• Eco-friendly employment opportunities to reduce dependence on forests.

“True conservation is achieved when those living closest to nature become its protectors and beneficiaries,” Rana said.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Suresh Kumar Gupta, also addressed the event, acknowledging the vital role of frontline staff in forest protection and sustainable management. The Minister later felicitated the top-performing trainees from the three training courses for their excellence and dedication.

Eco-Restoration Site and Forest Park Inaugurated

Following the parade, Minister Rana inaugurated a newly developed Forest Park and Eco-Restoration Site at Chandaji, Bandipora, a flagship initiative to promote environmental rejuvenation and public awareness.

The project has transformed a former dumping ground into a thriving green zone featuring native tree plantations, walking trails, parking facilities, and eco-awareness installations. Describing it as a “win-win initiative in the fight against environmental degradation and climate change,” Rana expressed optimism that the park would become a major eco-tourism attraction for visitors en route to Gurez Valley, generating livelihood opportunities for local residents.

The Minister concluded by urging citizens to join hands in protecting natural resources and supporting green initiatives to ensure a sustainable future for Jammu and Kashmir.