Workshop in Shimla Aims to Safeguard Forest Soil Health in Himachal...

SHIMLA: IN a proactive effort to address concerns over the depletion of organic carbon in forest soil, the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) - Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI) organized a significant workshop in Shimla. 

The Forest Soil Health Card (FSHCs) Pre-release Consultation meeting, held on May 14, 2024, brought together key stakeholders in a hybrid format, including forest officials, scientists, and experts.

Chaired by Sh. Rajeev Kumar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force (PCCF&HoFF) of Himachal Pradesh, the meeting witnessed virtual participation from various forest circles and divisions across the state, totaling 68 participants.

Dr. Sandeep Sharma, Director (In-Charge) of HFRI, emphasized the importance of the gathering and the institute's commitment to soil health preservation.

Sh. Rajeev Kumar echoed these sentiments in his address, stressing the need for a holistic approach to forest soil health and expressing concerns over declining organic carbon levels.

The technical session featured Dr. Vijender Pal Panwar, Senior Scientist from the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, and National Project Coordinator (NPC), who outlined the project's genesis, objectives, and expected outcomes.

Dr. RK Verma, Senior Scientist at HFRI, followed with a detailed presentation on the Forest Soil Health Cards specific to Himachal Pradesh, focusing on methodology, sampling techniques, and analysis protocols for comprehensive soil parameters.

Participants engaged in fruitful discussions on the FSHCs, providing valuable suggestions for further enhancing the card's contents.

The meeting, expertly coordinated by Dushyant, Scientific and Technical Officer at HFRI, concluded with a formal vote of thanks, marking a significant step forward in safeguarding the soil health of Himachal Pradesh's forests.

This workshop ensured the long-term sustainability of the region's ecosystems.