Rana reviews functioning of Kashmir Forest Training School

Bandipora, Aug 05: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana today visited Kashmir Forest Training School (KFTS) located at Chiternar in Bandipora district to assess the functioning of the institution and take stock of infrastructure requirements.According to a statement issued here, the Minister held a detailed review of the existing training modules, staff strength, hostel facilities and overall infrastructure of the school. He emphasised the need for modernization and capacity enhancement to ensure quality training for forest personnel. Minister Rana assured that necessary upgradation of School’s infra shall be undertaken shortly for which a comprehensive upgradation proposal has already been submitted to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). He assured that the matter will be vigorously followed up for early approval and funding.Later, the Minister interacted with several public delegations from the area who apprised him of various issues and developmental concerns related to water supply (Jal Shakti), tribal welfare, and forest-related matters. A major concern raised by the locals was the increasing monkey menace, which has been affecting agriculture and safety in the region.Taking serious note of the concerns, Rana issued on-spot directions to the concerned departments to prepare an action plan for addressing the monkey menace and improving service delivery in the sectors highlighted.The Minister reiterated the Government’s commitment to ensuring sustainable development and people-centric governance, especially in remote and ecologically sensitive areas.