Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Services (JKPSC)

• 25 Jan 2025

Chinar Trees

Why in News? 

The J&K Forest Department, in partnership with the J&K Forest Research Institute (JKFI), has introduced a unique initiative by assigning Tree Aadhaar numbers to thousands of Chinar trees throughout the region to conserve the iconic Chinar trees of Jammu and Kashmir. 

Key Points 

• The Chinar Tree’s Heritage Significance: 
  • The Chinar tree, also known locally as boonyi, is a symbol of Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural and natural heritage.  
  • These majestic deciduous trees are characterized by their height (up to 30 meters) and vibrant golden-red leaves during winter. 
  • The number of Chinar trees has significantly decreased in recent decades. 
• The Tree Aadhaar Project: 
  • Under this project, over 28,560 Chinar trees have been geo-tagged to create a comprehensive database.  
  • The trees are assigned unique Tree Aadhaar numbers, and a QR code attached to a digital plate allows anyone to scan and access critical details, including the tree's location, height, girth, canopy, health status, ecological threats, and pest presence. 
• Conservation Efforts: 
  • The initiative is part of a larger effort to conserve these trees, whose numbers have been dwindling due to various factors.  
  • A total of 28,000 trees have been geo-tagged and assigned their Tree Aadhaar IDs between 2021 and 2023.  
• Further Plans: 
  • In addition to this innovative documentation, the J&K Forest Department plans to create a Chinar Atlas, a comprehensive catalog of all Chinar trees across the region.  
  • The initiative also focuses on geo-tagging trees in restricted areas, ensuring even the most remote trees are included in the conservation efforts.