BANDIPORA, October 25, 2025 : Minister for Forests, Ecology and Environment Javed Ahmed Rana today presided over the passing-out parade of 152 newly trained forest guards from the 71st and 73rd batches of the Forest Training School (FTS), Bandipora.
The event was attended by MLA Bandipora Nizam-ud-din Bhat, MLA Gurez Nazir Ahmad Khan, MLA Sonawari Hilal Akbar Lone, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Suresh Kumar Gupta, Chief Conservator of Forests Kashmir Irfan Rasool Wani, Conservator of Forests North Circle Irfan Ali Shah, and other senior officers of allied departments.
Addressing the recruits, Minister Rana commended their dedication, discipline, and endurance during training, urging them to “dedicate themselves to the protection of Jammu & Kashmir’s forest wealth.”
He described the forest personnel as the “frontline defenders of biodiversity”, emphasizing that forests are “not just natural resources but lifelines supporting water, climate, livelihoods, and cultural identity.” He added, “Safeguarding them is both a moral and environmental responsibility.”
Reaffirming the Omar Abdullah Government’s commitment to sustainable and people-centric governance, the Minister highlighted policy measures that combine ecological protection with social equity. He outlined ongoing initiatives to empower tribal and forest-dependent communities through community forestry, green jobs, and eco-livelihood programs.
“True conservation happens when people living closest to nature become its protectors and beneficiaries,” Rana noted.
He also appreciated the faculty of the Forest Training School for maintaining high standards of instruction and professionalism, assuring that the government will continue to strengthen human resource capacity through advanced training, technology adoption, and infrastructure upgrades.
During the ceremony, Minister Rana felicitated top-performing trainees from the 71st, 72nd, and 73rd Forest Guard Courses for their excellence and commitment.
Later, the Minister inaugurated a Forest Park and Eco-Restoration Site at Chandaji, Bandipora, developed to promote environmental sustainability and reclaim degraded land through eco-restoration practices.
Terming it a “win-win initiative in the fight against environmental degradation and climate change,” he highlighted how the site—once a dumping ground—has been transformed into a vibrant green zone with native trees, walking trails, car parking, and eco-awareness installations.
“This project reflects our resolve to manage land responsibly and promote circular use of natural resources. It not only strengthens ecological balance but also adds aesthetic and tourism value,” he said.
The Minister expressed hope that the newly developed Forest Park will emerge as a major eco-tourism attraction for visitors en route to the Gurez Valley, boosting local livelihoods.
He lauded the efforts of the Forest Department, local stakeholders, and volunteers, urging citizens to take collective responsibility for preserving natural resources and supporting green initiatives for climate resilience and environmental health.
