MARCH 16: In a bid to preserve the heritage value of Chinar trees, the Forest Department of Jammu and Kashmir launched a Chinar plantation drive within the Civil Secretariat premises in Jammu. This initiative was part of the annual Chinar Day celebrations, which are observed across the Union Territory to promote the planting and conservation of Chinar trees.
The event was graced by prominent figures, including the Minister for Forest, Ecology, and Environment, Javed Ahmad Rana, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Commissioner Secretary Sheetal Nanda, and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force (HoFF) Suresh Kumar Gupta. During the ceremony, these officials planted Chinar saplings, symbolizing their commitment to preserving the cultural and ecological significance of this heritage tree.
Chinar Day, celebrated every year on March 15, focuses on raising awareness about the importance of Chinars and their environmental benefits. The plantation drives organized on this day extend across Jammu and Kashmir, with the department aiming to plant Chinar saplings in key locations throughout the planting season. The drive highlights the critical need to conserve this iconic tree, which has a deep cultural connection to the region.
Minister Javed Rana spoke passionately about the Chinar, describing it as an essential part of Kashmir’s natural heritage. He emphasized that the Chinar is a symbol of the rich plant biodiversity in the region and a tree that brings tremendous environmental benefits. Rana urged the public to plant more Chinar trees and directed the department to take necessary steps to conserve and protect the existing ones. He also highlighted the aesthetic and tourist value of Chinars, noting that they enhance the beauty of the landscape and attract visitors.
The Minister praised the collaborative efforts between the Forest Department and Jammu and Kashmir Forest Research Institute (J&K FRI) in promoting Chinar trees across the region. Key initiatives, such as geotagging Chinar trees in Kashmir Valley and implementing QR codes for easy identification, were discussed as innovative measures to preserve and track these valuable trees. Additionally, the establishment of a Vegetative Multiplication Garden (VMG) for Chinars in Srinagar will aid in growing and maintaining a steady supply of saplings.
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo lauded the Forest Department for its efforts, noting that over 28,560 Chinar trees in Jammu and Kashmir have been identified and geotagged. Each tree is equipped with a digital QR-enabled scannable plate, containing details of 25 attributes related to the tree’s health and status.
The Forest Department’s target for Chinar Day was to plant 1,000 Chinar trees across Jammu and Kashmir, with saplings being distributed free of cost to interested individuals throughout the UT. This initiative aims to promote awareness and encourage people to take part in the conservation of this majestic tree.
