SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department has sanctioned over 17,000 trees for bonafide use by locals under the Jammu Forest Notice and Kashmir Forest Notice over the past three years, government data reveals.
According to official data, a total of 17,308 trees have been sanctioned since 2022, amounting to over 25 lakh cubic feet (Cft) of timber, benefiting 18,471 people across Jammu and Kashmir.
In 2022-23, 5,761 trees were sanctioned, amounting to 8,68,166 Cft of timber for 6,088 beneficiaries. The number increased in 2023-24, with 6,223 trees sanctioned, providing 9,59,676 Cft of timber to 6,720 beneficiaries. However, in the current fiscal year 2024-25 (up to February 28, 2025), there has been a sharp decline, with only 5,324 trees sanctioned, totaling 7,95,642 Cft of timber and benefiting 5,663 individuals.
The decline in the number of trees sanctioned in 2024-25 suggests a possible shortage or stricter regulations in timber distribution. Compared to 6,223 trees sanctioned in 2023-24, only 5,324 trees have been sanctioned so far this year, affecting fewer beneficiaries. The reduction in timber volume from 9.59 lakh Cft in 2023-24 to 7.95 lakh Cft in 2024-25 also indicates possible constraints in timber extraction.
Meanwhile, in response to a query raised by MLA Irshad Rasool Kar, the government revealed that Jammu and Kashmir received a total of 1,87,982.62 quintals of firewood over the past two years, with a significantly higher allocation to the Kashmir region.
According to official data, 1,40,481.95 quintals were distributed in Kashmir, while Jammu received 47,500.69 quintals during 2023-24 and 2024-25 (up to February 28, 2025).
Additionally, 1,637 quintals of firewood were supplied to religious institutions, including mosques and cremation grounds, in the Sopore constituency this winter, government data reveals. (KNO)