Ganderbal, Nov 4:As part of the ongoing “Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada – 2025” being celebrated across the nation from November 1 to 15, a Fodder and Grass Awareness Programme was today organized at Prang (Gutlibagh Block) under the Mansbal Range of Sindh Forest Division, Ganderbal.
The event was held under the direction of Shri Irfan Rasool (IFS), Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir, and the supervision of Shri Iqbal Rasool Dar, Divisional Forest Officer, Sindh Forest Division, Ganderbal. The programme was jointly organized by the Forest Department in collaboration with the Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI).
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities, especially Gujjar and Pahari families residing in the forest fringe areas whose livelihoods depend on livestock rearing and dairy production.
Range Officer Mansbal, Shri Basharat Ahmad, conducted the programme successfully in coordination with scientists from IGFRI, who shared expert insights on identification, propagation, and cultivation of locally suitable fodder and grass species. They also discussed soil health improvement, scientific fodder management, and sustainable methods to enhance livestock productivity while reducing grazing pressure on forests.
As part of the Pakhwada celebrations, stationery kits were distributed among tribal students to encourage environmental learning and awareness. The active participation of local women in discussions on livestock management and sustainable livelihoods was highly appreciated.
Speaking on the occasion, the Range Officer emphasized that tribal communities are the true custodians of forests, and equipping them with modern scientific knowledge strengthens their traditional ecological practices. He extended gratitude to the Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir, and the Divisional Forest Officer, Sindh, for their guidance and support.
The event concluded with an interactive session between scientists and local herders, followed by a field demonstration on fodder cultivation techniques. Participants expressed deep appreciation to the Forest Department and IGFRI for organizing such an awareness-driven and inclusive initiative close to their communities.
The programme forms part of the nationwide Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada (1st–15th November 2025), commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and celebrating the valor, heritage, and contributions of India’s tribal communities.
Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the initiative aims to honour tribal culture, promote sustainable development, and ensure greater participation of tribal communities in nation-building.
The Prang event thus stands as a model of convergence between forest conservation, scientific innovation, and tribal empowerment, paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive rural future.
