Working on comprehensive plan for forest conservation: JK govt

Jammu and Kashmir government is working on a comprehensive plan for forest conservation, protection of wildlife and promotion of eco-tourism in the state, Forest Minister Lal Singh said today.
Winding up the discussion on the Demand of Grants for Forest, Wildlife, Ecology and Environment departments in the Legislative Assembly here, Singh said the government was working to make a comprehensive revival plan for forest protection.
The government would submit a comprehensive proposal to the Union Forest Ministry for approval of funds under different schemes to give the new impetus to the state's green gold, besides protection of animal species and eco-tourism, he said.

"If we have to save our forests, we need to pitch for more funds and grants from the Centre and the state," Singh said adding "there is a lot to be done to revamp the Department."
He urged officials to work in close coordination for forest conservation and strengthening the department.
Describing demarcation of forests as a "biggest challenge" for the government, the minister said procuring the demarcation poles were incurring huge amount of money.

He said the government was working to strengthen State Forest Corporation (SFC) which would revitalise the Forest Department.
"We all have to work to make SFC an example among the corporations. It is waiting for a great relief," Singh said adding "We should ensure that the SFC gets its life back."

The minister said the government was dealing with the encroachers, who have been destroying the precious forest land, sternly.
"We will not allow anyone to encroach into the forest land," Singh said.
The minister said for safety of Hangul (Kashmiri stag), the government has submitted a project report of Rs 25.72 crore to the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests for approval.
"Protecting Hangul and its habitation is highest priority of the government," he added.