J&K Government Extends Permission for Felling Khair Trees Until March 2025

The Jammu and Kashmir government has extended the deadline for felling Khair (Acacia catechu) trees on non-forest land until March 5, 2025, providing relief to farmers who faced delays due to the 2024 Parliamentary and Assembly elections.

According to a notification from the Office of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), the extension was granted following multiple representations from farmers across districts like Samba, Billawar, Kathua, Basohli, and Ramnagar. Despite applying for permission within the stipulated time, farmers faced delays due to the pre-engagement of revenue officials during the elections, causing the verification process to be incomplete by the original October 31, 2024 deadline.

Deputy Commissioners of Kathua and Samba highlighted that over 300 applications were delayed due to the election process and requested a one-time exemption to protect farmers’ interests.

The government recognized that if farmers missed this window, they would have to wait another 10 years under existing management rules, leading to potential deterioration of Khair trees in both quality and quantity. This decision mirrors similar extensions granted in 2018-19 and 2019-20 during the Panchayat elections.

The marking and felling/conversion process must be completed by or before March 5, 2025, across all territorial divisions. The extension falls under Para H & I of the “Management Plan for Khair Growing on Non-Forest Land,” ensuring the decision aligns with established guidelines.

The extension aims to safeguard the livelihood of local farmers, allowing them to benefit from the high demand for Khair wood in various industries.