Forest dept sets up nature library at Langate school

Srinagar, July 03: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Forest Department has set up a nature library at Government High School Nowgam in north Kashmir’s Langate forest division. The maiden library aims to promote environmental awareness among students in the remote area by offering exclusive books on nature, forests, and wildlife.The library was formally inaugurated by Conservator of Forests, North Circle, Irfan Ali Shah, along with MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed and DFO Langate. Over 100 titles on ecology, biodiversity, and wildlife conservation have already been stocked, with an additional 200 books to be added soon, as announced by the MLA.“This is a significant step toward educating our children about the environment. We hope this facility helps instill a lifelong respect for nature,” Irfan Ali said during the event.Speaking to Rising Kashmir, a senior forest official said the initiative was taken specifically for the benefit of students in this remote belt, where access to environment-related resources is limited. “The aim is to develop ecological consciousness among young minds so they can become responsible guardians of nature,” he said, adding that the library will be further expanded and maintained diligently.DDC Mawer, Khursheed Ahmad Dar, who was also present on the occasion, announced Rs 5 lakh from his development quota for the further upgradation of the library.The initiative received an enthusiastic response from the local community. “Our children never had access to such books before. This is a welcome step and we thank the forest department,” said Abdul Majeed, a local resident.Students also expressed excitement over the new library. “We now have books about birds, forests, and even how climate change works. I want to become a forest officer one day,” said Sadia Jan, a 9th-grade student. Another student, Mohammad Arsalan, said, “Earlier we only had our textbooks. Now we can read about wild animals, trees, and their role in the environment. It’s very interesting.”The forest department has urged the school administration to ensure proper upkeep of the facility and make the library a hub of learning on green issues.