Rana Advocates for the Self-Reliance of JKFDC

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 18: The Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today highlighted the need for dedicated efforts to transform Jammu Kashmir Forest Development Corporation Limited (JKFDCL) into a self-sustaining and profitable entity.
The Minister chaired a meeting at the Civil Secretariat to discuss the performance and operations of JKFDCL.
In his address, Javed Rana pointed out the significant revenue-generating potential of the JKFDCL and emphasized that measures must be implemented to ensure its financial independence.
He stressed the importance of utilizing the corporation’s resources more effectively to enhance profitability, asserting that the available resources should be optimally explored and utilized for better revenue outcomes.
He urged for both immediate and long-term strategies to reduce timber imports, instructing JKFDCL to adopt various initiatives to fulfill the timber demands in J&K from local resources while ensuring ecological sustainability.
The Minister also advocated for the development of barren lands, stressing that greater attention should be given to conservation and social forestry in non-forest areas. He instructed officials to actively work to prevent forest fires.
During the meeting, the Managing Director of JKFDCL presented insights into the corporation’s operations, highlighting the various challenges it faces. He mentioned that JKFDCL is effectively meeting the local timber and firewood requirements while supplying necessary resources to government departments.
Javed Rana further reviewed the ongoing conservation initiatives aimed at cleaning and enhancing Wular Lake, underscoring the critical role wetlands play in maintaining ecological balance. He pointed out that wetlands are essential for water purification, flood control, and supporting biodiversity.
The Minister directed officials to develop and implement comprehensive measures to tackle the challenges related to the lake while promoting its sustainable use. He emphasized the necessity of preserving and conserving Wular Lake.
Additionally, he called on officers to investigate sustainable revenue generation options from the water body, suggesting that a survey be conducted to assess the thriving fish species in the lake, migratory birds, and other natural resources like water chestnuts and lotus stems that support the livelihoods of 30 nearby villages.
During the meeting, CED WUCMA provided a detailed update on ongoing conservation efforts and various projects planned for the current financial year.