SRINAGAR:  The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Suresh Kumar Gupta today inaugurated a Day-long technical workshop for preparation of Annual Plan of Operations (APOs) for the financial year 2026-27 at NIC Dachigam. The workshop was aimed to guide the implementing Agencies in preparation of scientific, output oriented and people centric APO for the next financial year. 

The PCCF stressed on having meaningful consultation with panchayats in formulation of APOs so that the demands of local communities for fodder, medicinal plants and firewood and other forest produce are met from CAMPA plantation closures. He also stressed on making scientific proposals in accordance with the working plan prescriptions. 

The PCCF also released two booklets viz. “CAMPA Success stories, The Seeds of Hope” and “Forest Fire Management Plan of JV Forest Division”. Speaking on the occasion, he highlighted the significance of Compensatory Afforestation Management and Funding Agency (CAMPA) in Rehabilitation of degraded forests, Soil and moisture conservation practices, Forest Fire Management, Human Wildlife Conflict management, Conservation of protected areas and Biodiversity projects. PCCF directed the implementing agencies to prepare APOs as per the CAMPA guidelines.

Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), Kashmir, Irfan Rasool Wani in his address highlighted the achievements made under CAMPA since its inception in the year 2010-11. He inferred that under CAMPA 18000 hectares of degraded forest land has been treated so far with planting of 2.25 crore quality saplings. He said, Forest Department has also established 56 nurseries with an annual plant production potential of 75 lakh conifer and broadleaved plants. 

He stressed on improving the survival percentage of planted saplings with focus on economically viable plants, diversification of species and modernization of nurseries. Chief executive officer CAMPA, Dr. K.S. Jaychandran advised the implementing agencies to prepare Technically correct APO’s within the prescribed timelines with focus on greening activities, soil and moisture conservation works and other ancillary activities. He asked the forest officers to adopt landscape and watershed approach in the treatment of forest areas in a holistic manner.

The workshop showcased various success stories of CAMPA presented by respective Conservators of Forests of respective Forest Circles.  Field officers including DFOs also spoke on quality plant production and modern practices in nursery management, development of muck dumping sites, Forest Fire management and Habitat improvement for Wildlife and Management of Human Animal Conflict.

 The workshop concluded with a brainstorming panel discussion involving all participating officers. Officers from different departments including Forest Protection Force, Social Forestry, Wildlife and other sister departments also participated in the technical workshop.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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