Minister of State for Forest, Environment, Animal & Sheep Husbandry, Fisheries and Cooperative, Mir Zahoor Ahmad today inspected a hi-tech Nursery at Baramulla.The Minister was informed that presently there are 3.37 lakh saplings of different kinds included Kail, Deodara and Cuprous available at the Nursery.He stressed upon officials for planting of medicinal plants and fruit bearing plants in the Nursery. He also asked the concerned to maintain the Nursery properly and asked them to ensure optimal use of forest land.Earlier, the Minister convened a meeting with the Officers of Forest, State Forest Corporation (SFC), Forest Protection Force (FPF) and Soil Conservation Departments and reviewed the overall functioning of these Departments.
Threadbare discussions were made regarding various schemes launched by the Government to increase the green cover and protection of existing forest.Addressing the meeting, the Minister underscored the need for protection, preservation and conservation of the forest wealth of the State. He asked the concerned to work with utmost dedication and ensure that there should be no timber smugglings and encroachment of forest land.Mir Zahoor asked the Forest officers to build a synergy with the local people who can serve as a deterrent against forest related crimes.Among others, Conservator of Forests North Circle, Joint Director of Forest Protection Force, Chief General Manager, SFC North Circle and other Senior Officers of Forest and its allied Departments were present on the occasion.