Arjumand Shah
Srinagar, August 27 (KINS): The Jammu and Kashmir administration has decided to distribute one million plant saplings to farmers, aiming to increase tree cover outside forests and improve livelihoods.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to conserve biological diversity and protect the region’s natural ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and alpine pastures.
Official data available with Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS) reveals that the saplings will include species of local, medicinal, and economic importance. These efforts aim to combat environmental issues such as pollution and climate change while enhancing the livelihoods of farmers through sustainable practices.
Experts highlight the benefits of trees in absorbing harmful pollutants, capturing carbon dioxide, and releasing oxygen. Urban forests, in particular, are noted for their ability to act as natural carbon sinks and provide cooling effects, reducing the need for air conditioning in cities.
The administration under Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has prioritized biodiversity protection, forming Biodiversity Management Committees at the Panchayat level to promote afforestation, conserve water resources, and protect medicinal plants. Campaigns such as ‘Plastic Free Forest,’ ‘Paid Lagao Beti Ke Naam,’ ‘Van Se Jal, Jal Se Jeewan,’ and ‘Mission Life’ have been launched to raise awareness and engage communities in environmental conservation.
With forests in Kashmir located approximately 20 kilometers from urban areas, the government’s initiative to create green spaces near cities and towns aims to improve air quality, reduce noise, and mitigate pollution, making urban environments healthier for residents. (KINS)
