Forests as a natural resource

March 21 was celebrated as the International Day of Forests in order to raise awareness among the people about the role and importance of forests in our lives and need to conserve them. The theme for this year is “Forests and Health” to highlight the fact that importance of forests is undeniable and the role they play in sustaining human life is immense. It is a fact that Jammu and Kashmir is environmentally very fragile. Not only are the people of Kashmir dependent on natural resources including forests, for their survival, but also economically people rely on them. Despite the miles covered and milestones reached by the advancement and progress of human civilization, certain elements continue to be a drag in the forward march. What is unfolding in the field of science and technology is no less than a wonder. Advancement in science and technology has not only rectified many wrongs but also eased the phenomenon of living. However in the hindsight, the increasing dependence on technology and scientific advancement has caused overexploitation of natural resources, which in return has raised some inevitable questions as far as the survival of people on the planet of earth is concerned. It is very unfortunate that we have lost many forests in the previous century due to rampant exploitation of the natural resources. The importance of forests is undeniable and the role they play in sustaining human life is immense. The human survival is at stake amid the growing problems of global warming and environmental pollution. Our forests are source of income for number of families. Our natural resources are used rather exploited for the benefit of others. Likewise the forests, which are known as green gold, have been exploited to the hilt by forest smugglers and looters, without least inference from the government and the concerned authorities. The human interference in forest and in wildlife habitats has not only disturbed the natural ecology but has forced the wild animals to turn towards human dwelling which has resulted in the increasing number of man-animal conflicts. The role of the political leadership is indisputable in saving and securing our natural resources including forests. If our resources are to be saved, that needs a collective effort from all the sections of the society. The need of the hour is to strike a balance with our environment and work towards restoration of our forests and other natural resources.