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| Principal secretary forest listens to concerns and suggestions from Jammu farmers | | |  Early Times Report
Jammu, Aug 30: Dheeraj Gupta, IAS, Principal Secretary to Government, Forest Environment and Ecology Department, held a meeting today with representatives of Jammu farmers to discuss various important points related to the forestry sector. The farmers put forward their concerns and suggestions for the consideration of the government.
During the meeting, several key points were raised:
Transport of Eucalyptus Timber and Firewood: The farmers highlighted the significant difference in rates of Eucalyptus timber and firewood between Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory (UT) and Punjab markets, with a disparity of around 40%. Jammu farmers growing Eucalyptus plantations on their lands expressed their desire for the option to transport their produce outside the Jammu and Kashmir UT. This request was especially emphasized considering the existing provisions for the transportation of poplar and Khair outside the UT.
Launching Khair Mission: After a gap of 25 years, the felling of Khair trees was recently allowed in the Jammu and Kashmir UT. The farmers discussed the benefits of this decision, noting that Khair, a species that grows abundantly in the Kandi belt of Jammu, holds significant trade potential. They proposed the launch of a "Khair Mission" in the UT to support farmers growing Khair trees. The mission aims to provide assistance to farmers, including good quality seedlings, planting activities, and post-plantation care. This initiative is expected to contribute to the Prime Minister's vision of doubling and tripling farmers' incomes.
Departmental Nursery and Plantation Maintenance: The farmers expressed concerns about the decision to conduct all forest activities, including raising nurseries, plantations, and maintenance, on a tender basis. They stressed that raising a nursery and maintaining plantations require specific expertise, consistent temperature control, and continuous attention. The farmers recommended that these activities be managed by the department itself through contract-based arrangements, ensuring high-quality seedlings and effective after-care, and minimizing the risk of long-term failures in plantation projects.
Dheeraj Gupta, IAS, patiently listened to the farmers' concerns and suggestions during the meeting. He assured them that their issues would be addressed and resolved on a priority basis. The constructive dialogue between the Principal Secretary and the farmers emphasized the importance of collaboration and communication in shaping effective policies in the forestry sector.
The meeting concluded with gratitude from the farmers for the opportunity to share their views and engage in a productive discussion with the Principal Secretary. The willingness of the government officials to consider the farmers' inputs reflects the commitment to ensuring the sustainable development of the forestry sector in the region. |
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