National Afforestation Programme Implemented through Forest Development Agency
A.1. PROJECT IMPLEMENTING FDA : RAMBAN 2. FDA : Ramban
Forest Division : Ramban Forest Circle : Chenab District : Ramban State : Jammu and Kashmir
3. PROJECT LOCATIONS Ramban Forest Division falls in revenue district of Ramban. River Chenab forms
the South and South West boundary with Batote Forest Division, Pir Panjal Range forms
North and North East boundary with Anantnag boundary, East by Dhupdana- Sharwa
Dhumani- jwarta- Dandal- Gown ridge forms boundary with Doda Forest Division and
West by Didon- Achan -Mal –Reliar- Munimal- Sarkanthamal - Pahlbathali- Sinkhali-
Cotag ridge forming boundary with Anantanag and Mahore Forest Divisions. The gross
area of the catchment is 82,178 ha, out of which 48,279 ha (59%) is under forest cover.
Major portion of the track lies above 1500 meters altitude and experiences subtropical
and temperate climate. Temperature varies from 10 C in winter to 400C in Summer
Maximum precipitation is received in winter in form of snow and rain. Ranges: 3 (Two Territorial Ranges and one Soil conservation Range overlapping)
Territorial : Ramban and Benihal
Soil conservation : Banihal
4. Total Area : 2205 ha
Project Cost : Rs. 149.98 lakhs Project Period : 2003-04 to 2007-08
A.2. PROJECT PROPOSAL 1. Introduction: Earlier forests were managed mainly for commercial exploitation to
generate revenue. But now the priority has been changed with the global focus on
sustained use of Natural Resources and their conservation. As a result, there is a
perceptible change in the forest management wherein stress is now mainly on
conservation of forests and the biodiversity. However, it is widely observed that our rural
population living close to the forests has not changed their day to day lifestyle with
respect to their dependence on the forest produce viz., timber, firewood, fodder
grazing practices, shifting cultivation and encroachments etc. They continue with the
indiscrimination exploitation of forests to quench their thirst. To put an end to this want on
destruction of our forests, it was felt essential to involve these local communities living
close to forest areas in the protection, rehabilitation, and development of forests. Direct
participation of the local communities in the rehabilitation of forests gave birth to the
concept of “Joint Forest Management” and to carry out this challenging task effectively,
creation of the “Forest Development Agencies” for each territorial forest division resulted.
To reduce the impact of degradation of forest cover, the Chairman, Forest Development
Agency, Ramban have formed forest development agency, Ramban in 2003.Initially 44-
village forest committees were registered. At present, only 35 VFCs are functional.
2 Project areas and location: The total area of the division is 82.178 ha. The forest
area of this division falls under revenue district of Ramban. Earlier forests were
managed mainly for commercial exploitation to generate revenue. But now the priority
has been changed with the global focus on sustained use of natural resources and their
conservation. As a result, there is a perceptible change in the forest management
wherein stress is now mainly on conservation of forests and the biodiversity. However, it
is widely observed that our rural population living close to the forests has not changed
their day to day lifestyles with respect to their dependence on the forest produce viz.,
timber, firewood, fodder grazing practices, shifting cultivation and encroachments etc.
They continue with the indiscrimination exploitation of forests to quench their thirst. To
put an end to this wanton destruction of our forests, it was felt essential to involve these
local communities living close to forest areas in the protection, rehabilitation, and
development of forests. Direct participation of the local communities in the rehabilitation
of forests gave birth to the concept of “Joint Forest Management” and to carry out this
challenging task effectively, creation of the “Forest Development Agencies” for each
territorial forest division resulted. To reduce the impact of degradation of forest cover,
the Chairman, Forest Development Agency, Ramban have formed forest development
agency, Ramban in 2003.Initially 44-Village Forest Committees were registered. At
present only 35 VFCs are functional.
The project areas experiences varying climatic conditions ranging from subtropical to
temperate climate which is supporting variety of vegetation. Tree species found there
are fir, spruce, kail, deodar, Quercus spp., Berberis, Rogosus and Bibernum shrubs are
very common at higher elevation. Other species found are walnut, apricot, Robinia,
Ailanthus, almus, Pyrus, apples and hazel chest nuts etc. Quercus incana and Quercus
deltoid are common species used for fodder and fuel purposes. Good patches of Alnus
nitida are also found along Nullahs (riverbeds).
3. ANY PREVIOUS PROJECT: Nil
4. Socio economic profile of villages covered
Villages selected for the project activities are mostly close to the forest. The land
holdings of the inhabitants are small to marginal. The socio economic status of the
inhabitants is not good. The literacy rate is low (< 40 percentage). Most of the area
comes under backward region. The main source of income of people is agriculture and
daily paid works. Now they are getting some employment from this FDA programme. The
higher ridges of this division are enriched with medicinal plants but as there is complete
ban on the extraction of medicinal and aromatic plants, therefore, people are demanding
extraction and selling permits to improve their socio economic status.
5. OBJECTIVES OF THE SCHEME
Forests have always played a vital role in the maintenance of ecological balance at all
levels. Rural committees have been for ages; depend on forest to meet their requirement
of fodder, fuel wood, timber, fruits, fibers, flosses, and medicinal herbs for sustenance.
Even increasing population, urbanization, industrialization, construction of roads and
other development activities resulted in the shrinkage of the natural vegetation cover of
the state. Following short terms as well as long-term objectives are under taken in forest
development agency, Ramban to increase the forest cover of the state.
Short Term Objectives
• Regeneration and Eco-development of degraded forest and adjoining areas on
a watershed basis
• Augmenting the availability of fuel wood, fodder and grasses from the
regenerated areas
• Securing people’s participation in planning and regeneration efforts to
ensure sustainability and equitable distribution of forest products from the
regenerated lands and also to promote partnership concept in the
management and administration of forest and common property resources
• To promote agro forestry and development of common property resources
• Promotion of fuel saving devices to encourage efficient use of fuel wood and
to reduce drudgery of rural womenfolk in cumbersome collection of wood, as
also to improve the environment therefore
• Conservation and improvement of non-timber produce, viz. medicinal plants,
herbs and shrubs, etc.
• Encourage production of non timber products such a wax, honey, fruits, nuts
and other cash corps from the regenerated areas
• Develop water resource through plantation and water harvesting programme
• Development and extension of improved technologies such as clonal
propagation and use of root trainers for raising seedlings
• Employment generation for the disadvantaged sections of the society,
particularly women, SCs/STs, and landless rural labourers inhabiting the forest
and adjoining areas.
Long-term objectives
• Protection and conservation of natural resources through active involvement
of the people
• Checking land degradation, deforestation and loss of biodiversity
• Ecological restoration and environmental conservation
• Eco development
• Evolving mass people participation at the forest village level for the long term
management of natural resources in and around villages in a sustained
manner
• Fulfillment of the broader objective of productivity, equity and sustainability
for the general good of the people
• Improve quality of life and sustenance aspect of people living in and around
forest areas
• Capability endowment and skill enhancement for improving employability of
the rural people.
6. PROJECT COMPONENTS/ INTERVENTIONS
The first phase of the programme has been started during 10th Five-year plan (2003-04
to 2006-07) and initially 44 Village Forest Committees were registered by the Chairman
Forest Development Agency, Ramban but at present 35 VFCs are functional. The major
components of FDA, Ramban include Natural Regeneration (NR), Aided Natural
Regeneration (ANR), Artificial Regeneration (AR), Silivi Pasture Development (SPD),
Regeneration of Medicinal Herbs (RMH), Soil and Moisture Conservation (SMC), Entry
Point Activities (EPA), Extension and Awareness through trainings, microplanning
through PRA, Fencing, Monitoring, and Evaluation. All these activities were decided by
people and implemented through people’s participation. The main objective of the
intervention was primarily to rehabilitate the forests with the active participation of the
local people. The entire planning for forest development agency, Ramban has been
done on the basis of microplanning of each village by calling general as well as
executive body meetings with the technical advice of the forest department. Various
components of interventions are shown in table number 1 and 2.
Table 1: Statement showing the area covered during project period 2003-04 to 2006-07 and 2007-09 under FDA Ramban
Project period Target Achievement
Physical (ha) Financial (lacs) Physical (ha) Financial (lacs)2003-04 to 2006-07
1500 212.23 926 95.8414
2007-09 705 71.06 705 54.134 Table 2: Component wise area covered under different VFCs during 2008-09
Sr. No. Name of VFC Components (ha) Grand total ANR AR SPD PHS
1 Alanbass 12 6 2 0 20 2 Bhourdhar 12 6 2 0 20 3 Bhangara 10 5 2 2 19 4 Bhangna 9 6 3 2 20 5 Bradsool 10 5 2 3 20 6 Batoo 12 6 2 0 20 7 Draman 9 6 3 2 20 8 Dhak 11 6 3 0 20 9 Demote 12 6 2 0 20 10 Ganote 12 6 2 0 20 11 Gam 11 6 3 0 20 12 Jaradi 10 6 2 2 20 13 Jatgali 12 6 2 0 20 14 Kot Pogal 12 6 2 0 2015 Baragadi 11 6 3 0 20 16 Kanthi 11 6 3 0 20 17 Kumetsooli 10 5 2 3 20 18 Paristan 9 6 3 2 20 19 Ramban 11 6 3 0 20 20 Sildhar 12 5 3 0 20 21 Senabhati 10 5 3 2 20 22 Ukhral 11 6 3 0 20 23 Bajmasta 11 6 3 0 20 24 Chirwari 9 5 3 5 22 25 Chareel 12 6 2 0 20 26 Chanjloo 9 5 3 3 20 27 Duligam 9 6 3 3 21 28 Dalvakhoura 9 5 3 5 22 29 Khari 11 6 3 0 20 30 Mamna 12 6 2 0 20 31 Mangit 9 5 3 5 22 32 Nowgam 9 5 3 3 20 33 Neeltop 9 6 2 3 20 34 Sarbagni 10 6 3 0 19 35 Serachi 12 6 2 0 20 Total 370 200 90 45 705
Work programme under maintenance of the plantation raised during 2006-07 VFC wise under Forest Development Agency, Ramban S N
Location VFC Areas(ha)
Maintenance Total BUC Fencing Repair Watch & Ward Phy Fin Phy Fin Days Fin Fin
1 Co.19/R Alanbass 10 500 3580 398 1480 90 6300 11360 2 Co.11/R Bhourdhar 10 500 3580 398 1480 90 6300 11360 3 Co.27b/R Bhangara 13 650 4654 1025 3814 90 6300 14768 4 Co.42/R Bhangna 10 500 3580 398 1480 90 6300 11360 5 Co.16/R Bradsool 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 6 Co.9/R Batoo 10 500 3580 398 1480 90 6300 11360 7 Co.66/R Barman 11 550 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 8 Co.12/R Dhak 10 500 3580 398 1480 90 6300 11360 9 Co.49/R Demote 10 500 3580 398 1480 90 6300 11360 10 Co.57/R Ganote 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 11 Co.39/R Gam 12 500 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 12 Co.5/R Jaradi 10 500 3580 398 1480 90 6300 11360 13 Co.48/R Jatgali 10 550 3580 398 1480 90 6300 11360 14 Co.18/R Kot Pogal 11 550 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 15 Co.37/R Baragadi 11 650 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 16 Co.52/R Kanthi 13 600 4654 1025 3814 90 6300 14768 17 Co.70/R Kumetsooli 12 550 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 18 Co.20/R Paristan 11 600 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 19 Co.45/R Ramban 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 20 Co.60/R Sildhar 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 21 Co.23b/R Senabhati 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 22 Co.33b/R Ukhral 13 650 4654 1025 3814 90 6300 14768 23 Co.2/R Bajmasta 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 24 Co.19/B Chirwari 11 550 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 25 Co.47/ B Chareel 11 550 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 26 Co.47/ B Chanjloo 11 550 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 27 Co.50/ B Duligam 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 28 Co.30/ B Dalvakhoura 11 550 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 29 Co.10/ B Khari 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 30 Co.55/ B Mamna 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 31 Co.36/ B Mangit 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 32 Co.46/ B Nowgam 11 550 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 33 Co.53/ B Neeltop 11 550 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 34 Co.4/ B Sarbagni 11 550 3938 607 2258 90 6300 12496 35 Co.40/ B Serachi 12 600 4296 816 3036 90 6300 13632 G Total 396 19800 141768 23544 87588 3150 220500 449856 7. SALIENT FEATURES INCLUDING PROPOSED STRATGIES FOR
TREATMENT
Heavy biotic pressure and existing topography has resulted in environmental
degradation, resulting in erosion to top fertile soil, which results in low productivity
of the area. Involvement of local masses in dealing with these problems is the
focus of this FDA project. The choice of the plant species under different
components is governed by suitability of the area and needs of the local peoples.
Strategies for Treatment
a) Aided/Promotion National Regeneration (ANR): To restrict and reverse the
environmental degradation process the existing forest areas requires immediate
attention to increase their natural regeneration. In order to select appropriate tree
species to be planted in the area, the choice of local inhabitants taken into
consideration. The plantations will also serve the purpose for rejuvenation of
degraded lands. Wherever plantation is not possible, efforts would be made to
establish a permanent soil cover by sowing seeds/tufts of grasses and legumes.
In Aided Natural Regeneration (ANR) 200 plants/ha were planted.
b) Rehabilitation of Degraded Forests through Artificial Regeneration/ Management Intervention (MI): In order to rehabilitate the degraded forest area,
afforestation, and protection to existing stock was provided. It was also proposed
to educate and motivate inhabitants of the project villages to take care of the area
during and after project implementation in order to achieve success and bring
sustainability in the project.
c) Silvipasture Development (SPD): Under silvipasture Development component,
planting of fodder and other economically viable plants at the rate of 400 plants/ha
was done. It would also include sowing of palatable grasses and legumes.
d) Soil and Moisture Conservation (SMS) : This component was implemented
through following strategies :
• Checking of soil erosion : Checking of rill and gully erosion through check
dams, vegetative bunding, etc
• Nullah treatment works
• Conservation of water harvesting structures – Ponds, tanks, etc
• Other activities as mutually decided by the Village Forest Committees and
FDA authorities from time to time.
e) Regeneration of Medicinal Herbs: The regeneration of medicinal herbs requires
immediate remedial measure to reverse their reduction in frequency and
regenerate them since they are of importance in the socioeconomic of the
inhabitants. The species would be protected and regenerated through plantation
at the rate of 1,000 plants/ha.
f) New Technologies in Nurseries Creation: The success of any afforestation
programme depends on the quality of planting stock that is proposed to be
propagated for FDA plantations. Latest technologies were adopted to raise quality
plants.
g) Entry Point Activities (EPAs): Involving local masses in protection,
conservation, and development of natural resources including forest through Joint
Forest Management Mechanism is the prime motto of FDA. It is now believed that
more people involved in FDA activities would lead to greater success. Thus, in
order to build initial rapport among the local people, EPAs works was taken up in
the project areas.
h) Microplanning: Microplanning is the major component of FDA project. In
microplanning exercises, area and village specific requirements were identified,
prioritized, and then selected. After that project, implementation was done in
accordance with the local people. All microplans put together would help in
constituting an action plan for FDA project.
i) Monitoring and Evaluation: Monitoring and evaluation would be done by the
departmental monitoring cell of any of the government agency of state and central
level or NGO from time to time.
8. CREATION OF JOINT FOREST MANAGEMENT COMMITTEES (JFMCs) AND VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT FUNDS
Thirty-five Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) have been constituted for the
afforestation work. Unfortunately, no Village Development Fund (VDF) was established
until date. Forest Department and a few active members of the committee were well
aware of the importance of Village Development Fund (VDF). In some of the VFCs, they
had initiated the creation of Village Development Fund. The authorities regularly motivate
the people for creation of VDF.
9. IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES
A two- tier set up namely FDA and JFMCs/VFCs has been created for the execution of
various works under Ramban Forest Division of various works under Ramban Forest
Division. The FDA Ramban came into being vide no. MoEF (NAEB): 35.11.2/2003-B-II
dated 04-07-2003. There was 35 VFCs working in this division. Total areas treated
during 2003-04 to 2006-07 and 2008-09 was 1500 ha and 705 ha respectively. The FDA
project has been extended for 11th Five Year Plan (207-08 to 2011-12) by the MoEF
(NAEB), GoI.
Composition and Constitution of FDA and Field Implementing Units
General Body of FDA The general FDA body comprises of the following members
• President of all the VFCs
• Member Secretaries of all the VFCs
• One non official representative to be nominated by the Panchayat
• ACF and Range Officers.
Executive Body of FDA
The FDA executive body comprises of the following members Chairman : Conservator of Forests, Chenab Circle, Doda
Member Secretary : DFO, Ramban
Other members : Deputy Director, Agriculture
Chief Development Officer
Deputy Director, Animal Husbandry
District Soil Conservation Officer
District Education Officer
District Panchayat Development Officer
District General Manager Industries
Chief Medical Officer
Executive Engineer (Public Health)
Executive Engineer (B&R)
40 nominees from the VFCs (including two Women)
Village Forest Committee (VFC)
• Implementing Agency at Village Level
• Registered with Conservator of Forest
• Member Secretary : Forester/Block Officer
• There are 12 to 20 members in each VFC in Ramban FDA
• Panchayat Mukhia of most of the villages are acting as the President
10. MICROPLANNING AND JOINT FOREST MANAGEMENT Micro plans of all the 35 VFCs have been prepared.
11. ENTRY POINT ACTIVITIES (EPA) In FDA Ramban, the Entry Point Activities (EPAs) have been carried out in 35 VFCs
proposed by the Village Forest Committee. An amount of Rs. 149.98 lac has been spent
until March 2010. An amount of Rs 60.50 lac has been spent under development and
EPA works during the year 2007-2008 and 2008-09.
Main Entry Point Activities undertaken were 1. Bathroom with tanks
2. Bridal paths
3. Ponds
4. Trangri (wooden bridge)
Table 3: Areas wise list of Village Forest Committees during 2008-09 Sr. No. Name of VFC Creation work (705 ha) Advance work (555 ha) 1 Alanbass 20 18 2 Bhourdhar 20 18 3 Bhangara 19 19 4 Bhangna 20 18 5 Bradsool 20 19 6 Batoo 20 0 7 Darman 20 19 8 Dhak 20 0 9 Demote 20 0 10 Ganote 20 0 11 Gam 20 18 12 Jaradi 20 0 13 Jatgali 20 0 14 Kot Pogal 20 0 15 Baragadi 20 18 16 Kanthi 20 0 17 Kumetsooli 20 0 18 Paristan 20 0 19 Ramban 20 19 20 Sildhar 20 19 21 Senabhati 20 0 22 Ukhral 20 18 23 Bajmasta 20 0 24 Chirwari 22 0 25 Chareel 20 18 26 Chanjloo 20 19 27 Duligam 21 20
28 Dalvakhoura 22 0 29 Khari 20 18 30 Mamna 20 19 31 Mangit 22 20 32 Nowgam 20 20 33 Neeltop 20 20 34 Sarbagni 19 19 35 Serachi 20 19 36 Nilman 0 20 37 Thata 0 20 38 Manhall 0 20 39 Krawha 0 20 40 Fagoo 0 20 41 Chabba 0 20 42 Lamber 0 20 43 Pogal 0 20 Total 705 555 Table 4: VFC wise entry point activities details of Forest Development Agency,
Ramban Sr. No.
VFC EPA of 2008-09
Location Beneficiaries Estimated cost
1 Alanbass Bathroom Hochak 34 19620 2 Bhourdar Path Googni Shekhpur 25 19620 3 Bradsool Bathroom Bradsool 50 20710 4 Bhagna Path Karol to Doli 40 19620 5 Sildhar Path 2.6 km Bom to Sildhar 15 20710 6 Ramban Bathroom Pursul 25 20710 7 Chareel Path Chareel to Nowa 100 19620 8 Sarbagni Water tank Upper Palbass 70 20710 9 Khari Water tank Khowda 60 19620 10 Mangit Tangri Senabal 30 21800 11 Sarachi Tangri Sarachi 30 20710 12 Nowgam Repair of khul Upper Mohala Nowgam 40 21800 13 Chanjloo Bathroom Peerpora 30 2071014 Duligam Water tank Duligam Naibasti 20 21800 15 Neel top Bathroom Zanchoos 60 21800 16 Mamna Path 2.6 km Sherbibi to Levera 15 20710 17 Bhangara Path 2.6 km Bhangara to Chapangali 50 20710 18 Ukhral Water tank Near P/S Ukhral 56 19620 19 Gam Bathroom Mandlar 26 19620 20 Bradgadi Harvesting
tank Naunkoot 24 19620
21 Draman Path 2.6 km Wangn Shergali 18 20710 22 Nilman Bathroom Nilman 20 21800 23 Thatha Path 2.7 km Thatha to Guladhar 15 21800 24 Chabba Bathroom Gawari 8 21800 25 Fagoo Harvesting
tank Thandishah 105 21800
26 Kanihal Water tank P/School Kanihal 60 2180027 Pogal Water tank Pogal 25 21800 28 Lamber Water tank Near Masjid 42 21800 29 Krawa Bathroom Gujar Naad 250 21800 Total 1343 604950 Table 5: Statement showing the list of VFC’s for the year 2008-098
Sr. No. Name of VFC Sr. No. Name of VFC 1 Alanbass 23 Bajmasta 2 Bhourdhar 24 Chirwari 3 Bhangara 25 Chareel 4 Bhangna 26 Chanjloo 5 Bradsool 27 Duligam 6 Batoo 28 Dalvakhoura 7 Darman 29 Khari 8 Dhak 30 Mamna 9 Demote 31 Mangit 10 Ganote 32 Nowgam 11 Gam 33 Neeltop 12 Jaradi 34 Sarbagni 13 Jatgali 35 Serachi 14 Kot Pogal 36 Nilman (New) 15 Baragadi 37 Thata (New) 16 Kanthi 38 Manhall (New) 17 Kumetsooli 39 Krawha (New) 18 Paristan 40 Fagoo (New) 19 Ramban 41 Chabba (New) 20 Sildhar 42 Lamber (New) 21 Senabhati 43 Pogal (New) 22 Ukhral
Table 6: VFC wise plantation planted under FDA Ramban during 2008-09
SN VFC Areas in ha. Species of plantation planted Sowing MFP ANR AR SPD MFP Robinia Ulmus Ailanthu
s Walnut Fruit Dibbling Patch
sowing Dicories Rosent
1 Alanbass 12 6 2 0 5080 2700 900 20 200 920 1867 0 0 2 Bhourdhar 12 6 2 0 5080 2700 900 20 200 920 1867 0 0 3 Bardsool 12 6 2 0 3730 2700 900 20 200 765 1867 4000 2000 4 Batoo 9 6 3 2 5180 2700 900 20 200 920 1867 0 0 5 Dhak 12 6 2 0 5180 2700 900 20 200 920 2799 0 0 6 Jaradi 12 6 2 0 4680 2700 900 20 200 920 1867 2000 2000 7 Kot Pogal 10 5 2 3 5080 2700 900 20 200 920 1867 0 0 8 Bhangara 10 5 2 2 3880 2700 850 20 100 765 1867 4000 0 9 Ukhral 9 5 3 5 5180 2700 1000 20 200 920 2799 0 0 10 Paristan 11 6 3 0 7580 0 900 20 200 920 2799 4000 0 11 Senabhati 9 6 3 3 6730 0 1000 20 200 765 2799 4000 0 12 Gam 12 6 2 0 7880 0 900 20 200 920 2799 0 0 13 Ganote 10 6 2 2 7780 0 900 20 200 920 1867 0 0 14 Baradgadi 9 6 3 2 7980 0 900 20 200 920 2799 0 0 15 Jatgali 11 6 3 0 5180 2700 900 20 200 920 1867 0 0 16 Draman 11 6 3 0 4880 2700 900 20 200 920 2799 4000 0 17 Kumetsooli 11 6 3 0 6530 0 900 20 200 765 1867 6000 0 18 Bhagna 10 5 2 3 5680 2700 0 20 200 920 2799 4000 0 19 Demote 11 6 3 0 6080 2700 0 20 200 920 1867 0 0 20 Kenthi 10 5 3 2 7980 0 900 20 200 920 2799 0 0 21 Ramban 9 5 3 5 7880 0 1000 20 200 920 2799 0 0 22 Sildhar 9 5 3 3 7230 0 900 20 200 765 2799 0 0 23 Chareel 9 5 3 5 5080 2700 1000 20 200 920 1867 0 0 24 Chanjloo 9 5 3 3 3930 2700 900 20 200 765 2799 6000 0
25 Duligam 9 6 2 3 7480 0 900 20 200 920 2799 6000 0 26 Sarbagni 12 5 3 0 7780 0 900 20 200 920 2799 0 0 27 Khari 12 6 2 0 5180 2700 900 20 200 920 2799 0 0 28 Chirwari 12 6 2 0 6530 0 900 20 200 765 2799 10000 0 29 Bajmasta 11 6 3 0 5280 2700 900 20 200 920 2799 0 0 30 Mangit 12 6 2 0 6530 0 900 20 200 765 2799 10000 0 31 Dalvakhoura 10 6 3 0 6780 0 850 20 100 765 2799 10000 0 32 Serachi 12 6 2 0 5080 2700 900 20 200 920 1867 0 0 33 Neeltop 11 6 3 0 7280 0 900 20 200 920 1866 6000 0 34 Mamna 9 6 3 2 7880 0 900 20 200 920 1866 0 0 35 Nowgam 11 6 3 0 6630 0 900 20 200 765 2799 6000 0 Total 370 200 90 45 213900 48600 30000 700 6800 30650 83983 86000 4000
Work programme under creation for the year 2008-09 VFC wise under forest development agency, Ramban Table 7 (A): Aided Natural Regeneration (ANR) of Rs. 3150/Ha
Sr. No.
Location VFC Areas Planting PBI Total Amount Phy Fin Nur formation Phy Fin
1 Co.19/R Alanbass 12 2400 11904 8700 669 17196 37800 2 Co.11/R Bhourdhar 12 2400 11904 8700 669 17196 37800 3 Co.27b/R Bhangara 10 2000 9920 7350 553 14230 315004 Co.42/R Bhangna 9 1800 8928 8400 429 11022 28350 5 Co.16/R Bradsool 10 2000 9920 7350 553 14230 31500 6 Co.9/R Batoo 12 2400 11904 8700 669 17196 37800 7 Co.66/R Barman 9 1800 8928 8400 429 11022 28350 8 Co.12/R Dhak 11 2200 10912 8800 581 14938 34650 9 Co.49/R Demote 12 2400 11904 8700 669 17196 3780010 Co.57/R Ganote 12 2400 11904 8700 669 17196 37800 11 Co.39/R Gam 11 2200 10912 8800 581 14938 34650 12 Co.5/R Jaradi 10 2000 9920 8300 517 13280 31500 13 Co.48/R Jatgali 12 2400 11904 8700 669 17196 37800 14 Co.18/R Kot Pogal 12 2400 11904 8700 669 17196 37800 15 Co.37/R Baragadi 11 2200 10912 8800 581 14938 3465016 Co.52/R Kanthi 11 2200 10912 8800 581 14938 34650 17 Co.70/R Kumetsooli 10 2000 9920 7350 553 14230 31500 18 Co.20/R Paristan 9 1800 8928 8400 429 11022 28350 19 Co.45/R Ramban 11 2200 10912 8800 581 14938 34650 20 Co.60/R Sildhar 12 2400 11904 8050 694 17846 37800 21 Co.23b/R Senabhati 10 2000 9920 7650 542 13930 3150022 Co.33b/R Ukhral 11 2200 10912 8800 581 14938 34650 23 Co.2/R Bajmasta 11 2200 10912 8800 581 14938 34650 24 Co.19/B Chirwari 9 1800 8928 7450 466 11972 28350 25 Co.47/ B Chareel 12 2400 11904 8700 669 17196 37800 26 Co.47/ B Chanjloo 9 1800 8928 7450 466 11972 28350 27 Co.50/ B Duligam 9 1800 8928 8400 429 11022 28350 28 Co.30/ B Dalvakhoura 9 1800 8928 7450 466 11972 28350 29 Co.10/ B Khari 11 2200 10912 8800 581 14938 34650 30 Co.55/ B Mamna 12 2400 11904 8700 669 17196 37800 31 Co.36/ B Mangit 9 1800 8928 7450 466 11972 28350 32 Co.46/ B Nowgam 9 1800 8928 7450 466 11972 28350 33 Co.53/ B Neeltop 9 1800 8928 8100 440 11322 28350 34 Co.4/ B Sarbagni 10 2000 9920 8600 505 12980 31500 35 Co.40/ B Serachi 12 2400 11904 8700 669 17196 37800 Total 370 74000 367040 291000 19741 507460 1165500
(B) Artificial Regeneration (AR) of Rs. 5017/Ha
Sr No Location VFC Area Planting Dibbling/sowing Total amount Phy Fin Phy Fin
1 Co.19/R Alanbass 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
2 Co.11/R Bhourdhar 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
3 Co.27b/R Bhangara 5 4750 23560 765 1522 25082
4 Co.42/R Bhangna 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
5 Co.16/R Bradsool 5 4750 23560 765 1522 25082
6 Co.9/R Batoo 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
7 Co.66/R Barman 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
8 Co.12/R Dhak 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
9 Co.49/R Demote 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
10 Co.57/R Ganote 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
11 Co.39/R Gam 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
12 Co.5/R Jaradi 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
13 Co.48/R Jatgali 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
14 Co.18/R Kot Pogal 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
15 Co.37/R Baragadi 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
16 Co.52/R Kanthi 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
17 Co.70/R Kumetsooli 5 4750 23560 765 1522 25082
18 Co.20/R Paristan 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
19 Co.45/R Ramban 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
20 Co.60/R Sildhar 5 4750 23560 765 1522 25082
21 Co.23b/R Senabhati 5 4750 23560 765 1522 25082
22 Co.33b/R Ukhral 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
23 Co.2/R Bajmasta 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
24 Co.19/B Chirwari 5 4750 23560 765 1522 25082
25 Co.47/ B Chareel 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
26 Co.47/ B Chanjloo 5 4750 23560 765 1522 25082
27 Co.50/ B Duligam 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
28 Co.30/ B Dalvakhoura 5 4750 23560 765 1522 25082
29 Co.10/ B Khari 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
30 Co.55/ B Mamna 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
31 Co.36/ B Mangit 5 4750 23560 765 1522 25082
32 Co.46/ B Nowgam 5 4750 23560 765 1522 25082
33 Co.53/ B Neeltop 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
34 Co.4/ B Sarbagni 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
35 Co.40/ B Serachi 6 5700 28272 920 1830 30120
Total 200 190000 942400 30650 60970 1003820
(C) Silvi Pasture Development @ Rs. 3617/Ha
Sr. No Location VFC Area Planting Sowing grasses Total amount Phy Fin Patch Fin
1 Co.19/R Alanbass 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
2 Co.11/R Bhourdhar 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
3 Co.27b/R Bhangara 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
4 Co.42/R Bhangna 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
5 Co.16/R Bradsool 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
6 Co.9/R Batoo 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
7 Co.66/R Barman 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
8 Co.12/R Dhak 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
9 Co.49/R Demote 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
10 Co.57/R Ganote 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
11 Co.39/R Gam 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
12 Co.5/R Jaradi 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
13 Co.48/R Jatgali 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
14 Co.18/R Kot Pogal 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
15 Co.37/R Baragadi 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
16 Co.52/R Kanthi 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
17 Co.70/R Kumetsooli 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
18 Co.20/R Paristan 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
19 Co.45/R Ramban 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
20 Co.60/R Sildhar 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
21 Co.23b/R Senabhati 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
22 Co.33b/R Ukhral 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
23 Co.2/R Bajmasta 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
24 Co.19/B Chirwari 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
25 Co.47/ B Chareel 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
26 Co.47/ B Chanjloo 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
27 Co.50/ B Duligam 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
28 Co.30/ B Dalvakhoura 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
29 Co.10/ B Khari 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
30 Co.55/ B Mamna 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
31 Co.36/ B Mangit 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
32 Co.46/ B Nowgam 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
33 Co.53/ B Neeltop 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
34 Co.4/ B Sarbagni 3 900 4464 3650 6387 10851
35 Co.40/ B Serachi 2 600 2976 2433 4258 7234
Total 90 27000 133920 109495 191610 325530
(D) Perennial Herbs and Shrubs @ Rs. 6000/Ha Sr. No Location VFC Area Planting PBI Total
Fin Total Fin Phy Fin Phy Fin
1 Co.19/R Alanbass 0 0 0 0 0 0 75136
2 Co.11/R Bhourdhar 0 0 0 0 0 0 75136
3 Co.27b/R Bhangara 2 4000 7000 194 5000 12000 75816
4 Co.42/R Bhangna 2 4000 7000 194 5000 12000 81303
5 Co.16/R Bradsool 3 6000 10500 292 7500 18000 81816
6 Co.9/R Batoo 0 0 0 0 0 0 75136
7 Co.66/R Barman 2 4000 7000 194 5000 12000 81303
8 Co.12/R Dhak 0 0 0 0 0 0 75603
9 Co.49/R Demote 0 0 0 0 0 0 75136
10 Co.57/R Ganote 0 0 0 0 0 0 75136
11 Co.39/R Gam 0 0 0 0 0 0 75603
12 Co.5/R Jaradi 2 4000 7000 194 5000 12000 80836
13 Co.48/R Jatgali 0 0 0 0 0 0 75136
14 Co.18/R Kot Pogal 0 0 0 0 0 0 75136
15 Co.37/R Baragadi 0 0 0 0 0 0 75603
16 Co.52/R Kanthi 0 0 0 0 0 0 75603
17 Co.70/R Kumetsooli 3 6000 10500 292 7500 18000 81816
18 Co.20/R Paristan 2 4000 7000 194 5000 12000 81303
19 Co.45/R Ramban 0 0 0 0 0 0 75603
20 Co.60/R Sildhar 0 0 0 0 0 0 73733
21 Co.23b/R Senabhati 2 4000 7000 194 5000 12000 79433
22 Co.33b/R Ukhral 0 0 0 0 0 0 75603
23 Co.2/R Bajmasta 0 0 0 0 0 0 75603
24 Co.19/B Chirwari 5 10000 17500 486 12500 30000 94283
25 Co.47/ B Chareel 0 0 0 0 0 0 75136
26 Co.47/ B Chanjloo 3 6000 10500 292 7500 18000 82283
27 Co.50/ B Duligam 3 6000 10500 292 7500 18000 87303
28 Co.30/ B Dalvakhoura 5 10000 17500 486 12500 30000 94283
29 Co.10/ B Khari 0 0 0 0 0 0 75603
30 Co.55/ B Mamna 0 0 0 0 0 0 75136
31 Co.36/ B Mangit 5 10000 17500 486 12500 30000 94283
32 Co.46/ B Nowgam 3 6000 10500 292 7500 18000 82283
33 Co.53/ B Neeltop 3 6000 10500 292 7500 18000 83686
34 Co.4/ B Sarbagni 0 0 0 0 0 0 72453
35 Co.40/ B Serachi 0 0 0 0 0 0 75136
Total 45 90000 157500 4374 112500 270000 2764400
B. Quantitative Analysis B.1 Classification of Area Covered/Treated for the year 2008-09
Category Added Natural Regeneration
Artificial Regeneration
Silvi Pasture Development
Bamboo plantation
Cane plantation
Mixed plantation
Regeneration of perennial herbs/shrubs
Total % of total Project Area
Forest land 360 ha 1128 ha 125 ha 3,00,000 plants
59 ha (9,0000 plants)
3,90,000 100%
Community
land
- - - - - - - -
Revenue
land
- - - - - - - -
Government
wasteland
- - - - - - - -
Private land - - - - - - - -
Others - - - - - - - -
Total 360 ha 1128 ha 125 ha 3,00,000 59 ha (90,000 plants)
3,90,000 plants
B.2 Physical and financial achievements During 2008-09 an areas of 55 ha was taken up under advance work, whereas an areas
of 705 ha under creation. The abstract of the works executed through 43 VFCs of FDA
Ramban during 2008-09 is given here under:
Table 8: Physical and Financial Achievements for the year 2008-09 Sr. No.
Item of Work Target Achievement
Physical Financial Physical Financial 1 Aided Natural
Regeneration a) Advance work b) Creation work
220 370
5.70 11.66
220 370
5.07768 10.93639
2 Aided Regeneration a) Advance work b) Creation
200 200
15.17 10.03
200 200
15.07927 10.00851
3 Silvi-Pasture Development a) Advance work b) Creation work
100 90
3.40 3.26
100 90
3.17505 3.21693
4 Perennial Herbs & Shrubs a) Advance work b) Creation work
35 45
2.80 2.70
35 45
2.59690 2.2799
Total 555 705
27.7 27.65
555 705
25.9289 26.44173
5. Maintenance & plantation raised during 10th Five year plan
386 4.50 386 3.08107
6. Balance work of 2007-08
- 11.57 - 10.22314
7. Soil & Moisture Conservation
8.21 8.21
8. Entry Point Activities 555 6.05 555 6.04709 9. Fencing 2.74 2.35710 10 Microplanning 1.09 0.665 11 Monitoring and
Evaluation 1.09 1.00761
12 Awareness 0.55 0.2214 13 Overhead 5.47 5.46599 Total 41.27 37.2784 Grand total 95.99 89.64903
Table 9: Under Entry Point Activities (EPAs) the following item of work have been
carried out during 2008-09
Sr. No. Main Activities Numbers 1 Water tank 7 2 Bathroom 9 3 Harvesting tank 2 4 Tangri 2 5 Repair of Kuhls 1 6 Path (No of units) 8 Table 10: Advance and Creation work 2008-09 Sr. No.
Advance work Creation work Item of work Physical Financial Item of work Physical Financial
1 Fencing 78381 1732916 Fencing 23759 525311 2 Plant
production 304000 352640 Plantation 300000 1488000
3 MFP 70000 135100 MFP 90000 157500 4 Dibbling 156500 302045 Dibbling 30650 59160 5 Patch sowing 100000 175000 Patch sowing 83983 146970 6 Entry Point
Activities 29 units 604950 Maintenance of
Nursery 300000 300000
7 0 Balance work 2007-08
0 1022314
Total 3302651 3699255 B.3. PEOPLES’ PARTICIPATION
3.1. Participatory Rural Appraisal/ Microplanning
Before the initiation of project activities, village meetings were held with the VFCs
members and in each village microplans were prepared. Time schedules of different
works to be carried out were also highlighted. All the executed works had their approval
by the villagers as documented in the respective micro plan. As per the records
available in the office of Divisional Forest Officer-cum-Chief Executive Officer of FDA, it
was found that microplanning of all the executed VFCs was completed well in time.
3.2 Entry Point Activities The main Entry Point Activities (EPAs) undertaken were
• Construction of cattle ponds
• Bathrooms with tanks
• Wooden crossing over Gorges and streams
• Bridal paths
• Construction of bowlies and
• Construction of water tanks
3.3. Joint Forest Management
The details of JFM committees formed and other details are presented in Table-8.
Table 11 (a): JFMC formed with other details Sr. No.
Particulars Numbers
1 Number of villages where formation initiated in the division 44 2 Number of villages where committees established in the division 35+8 3 Total number of committees established so far in the project area 43 4 Total membership 8744 persons5 Percentage of SCs, STs in the VFC 15 % (b) Particulars Male Female Total (No.) Scheduled Caste 599 0 599 Scheduled Tribe 579 0 579 Others/ General 7560 6 7566 Total 8738 6 8744
a) Establishment of village funds : In progress
b) Joint Forest Management Committee/ FDA Meetings held
Name of Meeting JFMC Meetings FDA Meetings Number of General Body meetings held 170 7 Number of Executive Body meetings 90 5
h) Microplanning
Yes, the microplanning procedure has been carried out and microplans prepared accordingly.
i) List of important Registers/Records Maintained by VFC
• Only the document of micro planning is available with the VFC committees
whereas some of the VFC has maintained the meeting and resolution register
also.
FDA • Cash book, meeting and resolution register, voucher file, expenditure file
(actual), payment, micro plans, etc., are maintained properly at FDA level.
3.4 Capacity Building: Training of JFMC/Community Participation Conducted
Nil 3.5 Monitoring and Evaluation
Number of inspection by
a) Chief Conservator of Forests = 02 per annum b) Conservator of Forests = 08 per annum c) Divisional Forest Officer = 10 per annum
Whether FDA Conducted Regular Monitoring and Evaluation of Project Activities Yes, but in the middle of the project, monitoring could not be conducted.
Year Wise Expenditure Incurred on Monitoring and Evaluation
An expenditure of Rs 38600 during the year 2007-2008 and 2008-09 was come out.
Whether any Independent Agency Involved in the above Monitoring Process?
Yes. B.4. FOREST DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (FDA) MECHANISM 1. Outlines of the constitution of FDA, i.e., composition of general non
executive bodies along with deviations, if any, reasons therefore and concurrence of MoEF thereof.
Constitution of FDA General executive body is constituted as per the guidelines of National Afforestation
Programme (NAP)
General Body Chairperson of all Village Forest Committees is Conservator of Forests and Divisional
Forest Officer is the CEO of the FDA.
Members All the Presidents and Member Secretaries of VFCs. One woman from each VFC and
concerned Forest Range Officer.
Executive Body
• Chairperson : Conservator of Forests
• Member Secretary-cum-Chief-Executive Officer-Divisional Forest Officers
• Members : District officers of line Departments
• 25 members from the VFCs, including women.
2. Highlight the strengths and weakness, if any, pertaining to mutual responsibilities assigned to FDA (Administrative, Supervisory, and Monitoring), and VFCs/EDCs (Execution of field works.).
Strengths
• By involving the people, damage to flora (especially trees) and fire incidences
reduced considerably. The VFC members help in catching the culprit who
damages the forest and they actively participate in extinguishing the forest fire.
• Rural economy has improved.
• All the FDA activities have been carried out well in time and proper records of
the FDA project maintained.
Weaknesses
• Threat posed by the nomadic grazers (Gujjars and Bakarwals) to the plantation
after repeated consultation with them.
• In snow bounds areas, the advance work cannot be completed well in time as
fund released late.
• The lowest women participation despite lot of efforts
• Some areas are affected by militancy.
3. Comment on whether the project implementing VFCs/EDCs are also being benefited through any other forestry/community development project from State/Central Government. If no, then what role and initiatives the FDA proposes in regard to the overall rural/eco-development of the project areas.
No such projects have been commenced in the area since the inception of FDA
project. The state Rural Development Department works in the project area. The
present FDA plays an important role in their development by creating various
works to their interest at the village under EPA. Plantation closures have also
been made for their benefits from where people are getting grasses and fodder.
4. Provide brief outline of FDA bank account, its mode of operation, auditing
status supported with programme of works as envisaged in the guidelines. Comment on the flow of funds to the VFCs. Disbursement of funds by JFMCs for works executed. If delayed; reasons thereof.
FDA Ramban has opened a separate bank account in State Bank of India,
Ramban. The VFCs have their account in State Bank of India, Ramban. The
Chairman of concerned VFC and Member Secretary, i.e., Forester/Deputy Ranger
of the FDA, operates the bank account jointly. After the completion of the works,
the report is submitted to CEO, and then only the CEO transferred the money to
the concerned VFC account through cheques. The Chartered Accountant duely
audits the accounts of the FDA every year.
AUIDIT REPORT: Rajan Gupta, PC Bindal and Co Chartered Accountant audited the
accounts, Jammu dated 18.06.2009. The amount received during different financial
years is presented in Table-10.
Table 12: Statement of FDA funds for Ramban
Sr. No.
Year Amount (Rs in lac) Funds released by NAEB (Rs in lac.)
1 2003-04 to 2006-07
95.84 212.23
2 2007-08 54.13 71.06 Total 149.97 283.29
5. Similar details should also be provided for the individual VFC/EDC whose works were assessed and interactions held. Details of statement of account and progress reports sent by VFC/EDC to the FDA. Comment on the receipt of funds by VFCs/EDCs.
After verification of the bank passbooks of the concerned VFCs, it was found that
amount from FDA account was transferred to the VFC accounts and withdrawn
jointly by the Chairman and Member Secretary of the VFC after completion of a
particular work. During the discussion with other members, it was found that the
money was properly distributed to the client. Regular funds have been received by
the VFC from the CEO. Regular progress reports have also been sent to the CEO
through concerned officers.
C. QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS
C.1. Assessment of Plantations, SMC Works, and their Output
The plantation areas were selected with consultation of VFCs for execution of
works under the project. As per the opinion of the people and the project staff,
most of the areas nearby forest fringe villages were selected for treatment under
FDA. 1. Brief comment on the suitability of areas selected for project
implementations
The area selected for treatment under FDA programme is degraded and
species planted in the areas are suitable as per the requirements of the area.
2. Assessment of the work as seen in the field including quality of work
It was observed during the field visit that all the enclosures (planting areas) were
fenced with wooden poles on which four strands of barbed wire were affixed,
which not only give protection to the newly planted saplings but also provide
protection to the natural regeneration. It has been observed that different types of
species were planted according to the choice of local people but erratic and rain
fed conditions resulted in mortality of species in most of VFC visited.
3. Sampling Procedure Survival Survival rate of different species planted under selected VFCs was estimated by
taking 10 per cent of the total areas under each sampled VFC with unit size of
0.10 ha i.e.10 x10 m2. Observations like number of plants species wise, girth,
height of the plants and their survival percentage were observed. The overall
survival of the plants was found to be 55 per cent. The highest survival of 80
percent was observed in Khari VFC and the least survival of 40 per cent was
reported in VFC Alanbass. The plantation work was carried out under AR, ANR,
SPD, and RMH components. It has been observed that main species planted
were Alnus, Ailanthus, Apricot, Apple, Fir, Spruce, Walnut, Horse Chestnut,
Robinia, Kail, and Poplar etc. Red clove grass and Discordia were also observed
in some of VFC visited. The average height of tree species was 2 to 3 feet. The
maximum average height was observed in popular and minimum in horse
chestnut. The list of the VFCs visited is given in the following table.
Table 13: Details of selected Village Forest Committees of visited Ranges
Sr No Name of Ranges Selected VFCs 1 Ramban Alanbass, Gam and Duligam 2 Banihal (Territorial) Neeltop, Khari and Serachi 3 Banihal (Soil conservation) Chanjhoo and Chareel
The survival rate of the species planted in different selected VFCs was found very
well. The overall survival was found to be 55.125 i.e. 55 per cent. The survival
rates of plantation under randomly selected VFCs are presented in following table.
Table 14: Survival rate of randomly selected VFCs in FDA Ramban.
Sr.No. Ranges Name VFC Areas Plants Survival % 1 Ramban Alanbass
Gam Duligam
20 18 15
9720 9200 6200
40 54 52
2 Banihal (Territorial) Neeltop Khari Serachi
20 18 20
8400 9000 9100
65 80 55
3 Banihal (Soil conservation) Chanjhoo Chareel
20 18
9320 9150
50 45
Overall survival rate 55.13
4. Assessment of regeneration/rehabilitation status of degraded lands treated
The natural regeneration has been found in good condition. Large numbers of kail
seedlings were observed in Neeltop VFC. Area of all selected VFCs was properly
fenced with barbed wire to protect new recruits from cattle.
5. Technology used in the project: Technology or methodology adopted under
each of the components sanctioned by NAEB. An analysis of the technology used and its effectiveness in brief
Methodology: Various works performed by the project authorities as per the approved
technical programme and microplans were evaluated through random sampling
techniques using integrated and comprehensive methodologies, which are
1. Collection of secondary data and its analysis
2. Field visits and survey of work done under different components
3. Assessment of plantations through laying of plots and measurements of plants
under AR, RMH, SPD component, fencing status, EPA works, soil and moisture
conservation measures, adopted and executed
4. Discussions with the beneficiaries of the selected VFCs in order to assess
people’s participation in the project activities
5. Assessment of nursery stock both quality and quantity for afforestation work under
different components
6. Discussions with the project officials regarding execution of works, microplaning,
budgets, bank accounts and other related activities executed
7. The data collected were analyzed by adopting suitable statistical tools.
Technologies
No new technology was adopted so far. As discussion made with CEO of the project,
trench-planting technique would be adopted for plantation from the next season as most
of the area is rain fed and receives less rainfall. Mostly pit planting technique was
adopted. The pit size was 0.40m x 0.40m x 0.30 m with spacing of 3m x 3 m. On an
average one thousand one hundred plants have planted per hectare under ANR
component, 400 plants (1100) under SPD and 200 plants under NR component. Plant
species, which can grow easily by direct sowing, patch sowing (0.45m x 0.45m x 0.15 m)
technique, was adopted at a spacing of 2 x 2 m2.
6. Increase in availability of biomass (fuel-wood, fodder and other NTFP,
fodder and small timber, etc.)
The biomass production of fuel wood, fodder, and medicinal plants did not
increase because the plantations were too young, only the production of grass
increased in the enclosures due to protection measure. 7. Improvement in quality of life of people in project area (status of health and
education, availability of drinking water, increases in per capita income)
Although the project area covers far-flung villages, there was improvement in the
quality of life of people because of the employment they are getting from FDA
activities. The health status of the residents is fare. To avail the health services
one has to walk 10 to 15 km or even more. The literacy rate is low as most of the
population is poor and engaged in their routine work of agriculture and rearing of
husbandry. Thus, they were not interested to send their children to school. The
drinking water facilities are not good in most of the VFC visited. The per capita
income has increased little bit as the villagers get employment through wages in
project area.
C.2. PEOPLE PARTICIPATION 1. Whether the choice of species has been decided in consultation with the
local people. Also, please comment briefly whether these are in consonance with the local needs
Yes, the choice of species to be planted was finalized after discussions with local
people. The species planted is an indicator that VFCs have their say in selection
of the species and implementing agency impart proper technical knowhow to
them.
2. Briefly comment on the suitability of species taken up for NTFP and medicinal plants (perennials) from economic point of view.
Selected species were suitable for their utility point of views as NTFP. The
medicinal plants, which have more economic value and native to the area, were
planted. However, the implementing agency still has to create more awareness
about cultivation of such species and their marketing.
3. Whether the project has created awareness among local population about the responsibilities they expected to discharge and benefits that are likely to accrue from the project
The implementing agency has been quite successful in raising of awareness
among local masses about the project activities and their benefits. The VFCs were
also made aware regarding their responsibilities and maintenance of their
accounts and creation of the development fund.
4. What approach has been adopted by the project authorities for motivating
the public? The villagers were motivated by organizing camps in their villages. The project
officials and staff have made direct dialogue/communication with different VFCs at
regular interval of time. The exposure visit of the VFCs members to successful
JFM areas is scheduled to be held shortly.
5. Whether the means of communication adopted have been successful and have there been a favourable response?
The means of communication adopted by the implementing agency have casted a
direct impact on people and were successful in eliciting their participation. The
favourable response was observed from the villagers during field visits.
6. Whether the village communities have been involved in
a) Project planning Yes
b) Project implementation Yes
c) Usufruct sharing mechanism Not yet.
d) Are the people aware of GOI issued (if any) with regard to JFM usufruct sharing mechanism?
The people are not much aware of the GOI issued instructions regarding
JFM, but regarding usufruct, sharing the staff has been made aware for the
collection of grass, fodder, fuel wood from the enclosure by sharing among
VFCs member.
e) Has any formal arrangement been involved for sharing the
intermediate and final produce of the project activities
Not at present
f) Evaluation and comments on the effectiveness of the mechanism evolved and the equitableness of the same.
The local communities/committees are actively involved in the entire
process.
2. What role has been played by local communities/committees in arriving at the mechanism?
Not decided yet but in future they will share produce according to the guidelines of
FDA and NAEB.
C.3. ASSETS: Protection and Maintenance
What measures have been used for protecting the assets created in the project? State the quality and quantity of measures adopted and their effectiveness. The evaluator may state whether in spite of measures the plantation are subjected to grazing or other abiotic damages. Whether these issues were placed before the VFC. If so, with what results. If not, why? Whether VFC has been effective in sorting out these issues? Various assets, viz., plantation, soil and moisture conservation works and EPA works
were created under the FDA project. Protection and maintenance measures of the
plantation include fencing with barbed wire having four strands fixed on wooden poles.
The fencing protects the plantation from biotic interferences. Protection of plantation by
fencing is very effective. The maintenance of the plantation enclosure is satisfactory.
Advance works mostly done in the month of March include fencing of area, bush cutting,
and pit digging. The assets created under soil and moisture conservation works include
loose boulder, dry check dam, protection wall, etc., which control the soil erosion, were
found satisfactory. Various assets were also created under Entry Point Activities (EPAs)
in different VFCs, which are being looked after by the concerned VFC now. Due to
common responsibility for caring the EPA works and other assets is not very strong. In
this direction, village development fund be collected so that the fund created under this
head could be utilized for the protection and maintenance of the created assets after the
project is over. The quantity and quality of protection and maintenance was found
satisfactory. No grazing fire and illicit felling incidences were observed during field visit.
C.4. Maintenance of Records
a) Whether record of nursery indicating the number and species of seedlings raised has been maintained?
The nursery record was well maintained. Records also include species wise detail
and nursery stock raised.
Table 15: Status of the nurseries developed under forest development agency
Ramban during 2008-09 Range Nursery Location Constituency
& NES Block Areas Species wise plants raised Plants
supplied 2009-10
Total areas
Effective area
Robinia Ulmus Ailenthus Apricot Total
Banihal Zaban 45/Bnl Banihal 2.5 2.0 85400 40100 5000 19500 150000 131240
Tanjiwar 46/Bnl Banihal 1.0 0.8 20000 0 0 0 20000 20000
Krawa 42/Bnl Banihal 2.5 2.5 67200 0 0 0 67200 60000
Mangit 36/Bnl Banihal 2.0 1.5 15800 5000 0 0 20800 20800
Ramban Karol -- Ramban 2.0 1.5 40000 .0 5000 0 45000 45000
Total 10 8.3 228400 45100 10000 19500 303000 277040
Note: 70,000 MFP Perennial Herbs and Shrubs (MFP) also raised in VFC closures, besides conifer seeds
have also been raised in polybags, in addition sowing of different species also done in Krawa Nursery for raising of pricking for 2010-11.
b) Whether these are adequate and posted from time to time. If not, the reason for not posting of these records and effect of unposted records on the implementation of the project.
Yes
c) Whether plantation journals have been maintained and posted up to date. Whether a surveyed sketch of plantation has been posted on the register?
Yes.
d) Whether inspecting officials of the implementing agency like DFO, CF, and CCF have recorded their observation/ comments, if any.
Yes.
e) Whether record/register of FDA general body and executive body meetings
maintained? Yes.
C.5. PROJECT BENEFITS
The implementing agency did not quantify the intangible benefits provided to the villagers
due to lack of experts in this field and non-availability of fund under this head from
regenerated areas. However, some of the tangible benefits like collection of grass from
enclosures, soil conservation due to SMC works and EPAs work only on visual basis are
quantified. No suitable and appropriate system to forecast such benefits is being
adopted, because all the plantations were small and other works are in remote area,
which is very difficult to evaluate scientifically. People are getting benefits in the form of
labour and grass from closures.
In all the project areas, employment in the form of wages is being provided to the local
communities. Due to cultural and religious restrictions, women are mostly engaged in
domestic and fieldwork, women do not participate in the project activities, hence, there is
no such benefit, which goes directly to the women.
Man-days Generated
Total man-days generated 83,000 during the year 2007-08 and 92,214 in the year
2008-2009.
C.6. PROJECT REPORTING ACTIVITIES
a) What returns (reports) have been submitted by implementing agency to the state/Central government whether these reports were sent regularly on due dates. If not, the reasons, therefore?
Regular quarterly and annual progress reports both physical and financial are
being sent to the concerned offices well in time.
b) Whether any state level agency has monitored project activities. If so the outcome of such monitoring/evaluation and the comments, if any?
Yes, National level agency, the Panacea headed by Mr. Nageshwar Sharma
(2005-06) has monitored the project activities. The Conservator of Forests
(Chairman) and CEO (DFO) monitored the project activities from time to time.
Physical and financial verification is done by the officials at regular intervals. Any
type of shortcomings, querries and grievances of the VFCs are being dealt
efficiently.
C.7. PROJECT CONSTRAINTS/LIMITATION
a) What constraints/limitation were faced by the project authorities, if, any?
Various constraints faced by the project authorities are listed below
1. Shortage of trained staff/manpower
2. Difference in wage rate. Locally the prevailing wage rates are of Rs 150/day
whereas in FDA it is Rs 100/day. Therefore, it is very difficult to execute the
works.
3. Funds under protection of plantations are low. Due to heavy grazing
pressures, the plantation can only be protected if watch and ward is there. The
project has kept watch and ward for protection of plantation, so the available
funds do not meet the requirement of the protection activities.
4. Lack of infra structure
5. Instability of staff
b) Whether the fund flow was smooth and without delays?
The fund flow was regular and smooth. The FDA and VFCs has received regular
fund.
c) If flow was not smooth, where did the delay arises / this must be checked with
record.
The flow of fund was smooth
d) Whether the project authority made adequate efforts to get the funds released in time? Yes, the project authorities had submitted all the progress reports and GUCs of
fund to the NAEB and received the fund in time.
C.8. Suggestion for Improvement
8.1. From the implementing/supervising agencies a) Whether there is any scope for improving the project output?
Yes, the plantation of more fruit trees, medicinal and aromatic plants having
economic values should be encouraged. The cultivation of kala zeera (Bunium
persicum) should be encouraged among the different VFCs. The protection of fruit
plants like apple, walnut, apricot, etc., should also be increased under AR
component. The collection of guchhi (Morchella esculenta) should be promoted.
To create more village development fund in order to sustain the project activities,
the villagers must be motivated and encouraged through regular consultation
meetings.
b) Whether the project authority have felt any need for improving upon any
particular activities or methodology?
Yes, plantation should be done in the months of Jan-Feb and separate temporary
nursery should be there for each VFC to reduce the cost of transportation and
injuries to seedlings etc.
c) Whether the people of the area feel any need to improve any particular aspect of the project?
Yes, people of the area feel that more funds should be allocated under Entry Point
Activities and rural artisan should be promoted. More trainings and exposure visits
should be conducted to create awareness among people. People also want
forestland for agriculture purpose since they have small land holdings.
8.2 FROM THE EVALUATING AGENCY/CONSULTANTS
a) Whether the project should be continued/modified discontinued (give reasons)? The FDA project should be continued because of the following reasons
1. To improve the socioeconomic conditions of the local inhabitants
2. To increase the forest cover through afforestation activities by involving the
local communities
3. To generate employment opportunities at village level
4. To reverse the process of degradation of natural resources through people’s
participation
5. To increase the availability of fuel wood, fodder and small timber in order to
reduce the pressure on existing forests
6. To check migration of rural poor to the cities
7. To promote more people participation in resources management
8. To promote the concept of local governance
9. To increase the productivity of land per hectare
10. The productivity per unit area per unit time especially that of medicinal and
aromatic plants.
b) Any other relevant recommendation(s) 1. As most of the project area falls under rain fed conditions, trench planting
technique should be adopted for better survival of the plantation
2. Bio fencing of natural growing bushes/shrubs along with existing fencing
should be promoted so that long term protection of the planting areas could be
provided thereby reducing the cost of maintenance
3. As the area is suited for cultivation of medicinal and aromatic herbs, more area
must be brought under RMH component in consultation with the local
communities and helping them in nursery raising, plantation technology, post
harvest handling and also exploring the market availability
4. Women participation should be increased through continuous meetings
5. Root trainers technology to raise the nursery stock should be adopted in order
to reduce the nursery raising and plantation costs
6. Establishment of temporary nurseries near plantation sites.
14. Name and Designation of functionaries of FDA (DCF, CF, CCF) with whom evaluator has interacted.
Before the evaluation of the FDA, the following officials were interacted regarding
the project activities:
1. Mr. SK Gupta Chairman, FDA Conservator of Forests Chenab Circle, Doda District
2. Mr. QD Malik CEO, FDA Divisional Forest Officer Ramban Forest Division
Both the officers were actively interacted in the different project activities, technology
used, project reports, monitoring, trainings, and level of awareness created. Only CEO
was interacted regarding progress report, audit of accounts, transfer of fund to VFCs,
physical and financial targets and constraints, strength and weakness of the FDA project.
Mr. QD Malik, CEO, FDA opined that the wage rate fixed by state government and paid
to villagers is unattractive and need to be revised. He also emphasized that fund under
protection of plantation should be increased so that more and more area was covered
under plantation by engaging watch and ward to kept the area safe from encroachment
and nomadic grazers. He also informed that VFCs are more interested in Entry Point
Activities than other activities, which would defeat the purpose of the scheme. Some
times planting season goes off and target achieved in next year, which cause difficulty to
achieve the plantation target.
A telephonic discussion with CF Chenab, Mr. SK Gupta revealed that he had put lot of
efforts to involve the villagers through continuous meetings, trainings, supervision, and
visiting of the sites. He gave instructions to his subordinate staff time to time and gets
feedback from the field staff.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Forest Development Agency Ramban came into existence vide MoEF, GoI’s
Sanction letter no. : MoEF (NAEB): 35.11.2/2003-B-II dated 04-07-2003. The first phase
of the programme had been started during 10th Five Year Plan (2003-04 to 2006-07)
Ramban Forest Division has two territorial ranges viz., Ramban and Banihal and one
soil conservation range is overlapping. The forest area of this division falls in revenue
district of Ramban. The area of Ramban Forest Division is 82,178 ha, out of which 59
per cent (48,279 ha) is under forest cover. Major portion of the track lies above 1500
meters altitude and experiences temperate climate. Temperature varies from 10C in
winter to 400C in summer.
The project could not be completed during 2003-04 to 2006-07 period, so this
programme has been extended for 11th Five Year Plan (2007-08 to 2011-12). During
2003-04 to 2006-07, physical target achieved was 926 ha and financial was Rs. 95.8414
lacs. During 2007-08 the physical target achieved was 705 ha and financial was Rs.
54.13395 lacs while during 2008-09 physical target achieved was 705 ha and financial
26.44173 lacs. The major components of the Ramban FDA include Aided Natural
Regeneration (ANR), Artificial Regeneration (AR), Management Intervention (MI),
Silvipasture Development (SPD), Regeneration of Medicinal Herbs (RMH), Soil and
Moisture Conservation (SMC), Awareness, Training and Entry Point Activities (EPA) etc.,
Till the evaluation, a total of 8,744 households including 599 scheduled caste and 579
scheduled tribes were benefited from this FDA project. General body meetings (170) and
executive body meeting (90) of VFCs have been completed in all VFCs. The major
species planted in different VFCs were Alnus, Ulmus, Apricot, Apple, Ailanthus, Deodar,
Kail and Robinia etc. whereas, Entry Point Activities (EPAs) included construction of
Bathroom, Path, Watertank, Tangri, Water harvesting tank and Repairing of Kuhls etc.
The overall survival of plants has been assessed to 55 per cent. This was highest (80%)
in Khari VFC and least in Alanbass VFC. Various activities carried out under Ramban
FDA were found very well. It has been observed in the field that representation of women
in all VFCs was negligible because of Islamic norms. The staff of Ramban FDA was
interested to establish nursery at VFC level and release of more funds under EPAs.
People and members of VFCs were expecting more funds under EPA beside funds for
its care. As there is a ban on the extraction of medicinal plants in J&K, public is
interested in getting extraction and sale permit from the forest department.
Overall, the various activities carried out by the Ramban FDA were found to be in good
conditions. Despite of the tough terrain, constraints faced by local people and staff
members, physical and financial targets achieved has been commendable.
OVERALL GRADING OF THE PROJECT ON A SCALE OF 1-10
A Quantitative Aspects
Physical 9/10
Financial 9/10
Overall (% of A) 90%
B Qualitative Aspects
Survival of plantation 5.5/10
Health of plantation 6/10
Maintenance 8/10
Sustainability 7/10
Overall (% of B) 66.25%
C JFM
Degree of people’s participation 8/10
Satisfaction over perceived benefits by the local population 8/10
Overall (% of C) 80.00%
D FDA Mechanism
Composition of general and executive bodies 8/10
Role of FDA in Administration. Supervisory and monitoring Mechanism of
the project
8/10
Fund flow from FDA to VFCs 9/10
Measure taken for capacity building 8/10
Planning, implementation and maintenance of assets directly by
VFCs/EDCs
5/10
Overall (% of D) 76.00%
Overall all grade obtained (A+B+C+D) = 78.06 % (Very Good)
Overall Grading of the Project
Outstanding (8-10 Very good 5-<8 Good 3-<5 Poor <3
- - Very good - -
Evaluation Report First Concurrent
Evaluation of National
Afforestation Programme (NAP) of Forest Development
Agency (FDA) Ramban
(Jammu & Kashmir )
2009-10
REGIONAL CENTRE National Afforestation and Ecodevelopment Board
(Ministry of Environment and Forests, GoI) Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry
Solan, Himachal Pradesh 173 230
Evaluation Report
First Concurrent Evaluation of
National Afforestation Programme (NAP) of Forest Development Agency (FDA)
Ramban (Jammu & Kashmir)
2009-10
P Kaushal HP Sankhyan
Kehar S. Thakur
Regional Centre National Afforestation and Eco-development Board
(Ministry of Environment and Forests, GoI) Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry
Nauni, Solan (HP) 173 230
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Regional Centre, National Afforestation and Ecodevelopment Board,
Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India, Dr YS Parmar
University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP) has conducted the
First Concurrent Evaluation of Project Under National Afforestation and
Programme (NAP) Implemented through Forest Development Agency (FDA)
Ramban in J&K.
This evaluation is the outcome of sincere efforts of team who is associated
with preparation of this report.
We are thankful to the State Forest Department of Jammu & Kashmir for
providing necessary information and kind cooperation during the field visits.
Regional Coordinator / Director
Abbreviations Used
% : Percentage 2k1 : 2001 Adv. : Advance amsl : Above Mean Sea Level ANR : Aided Natural Regeneration AR : Artificial Regeneration CCF : Chief Conservator of Forests CEO : Chief Executive Officer CF : Conservator of Forests Comptt. : Compartments cu : Cubic DFO : Divisional Forest Officer EPA : Entry Point Activities FDA : Forest Development Agency Fin. : Financial GoI : Government of India ha : Hectare HQ : Head quarter p in : Inch JFMCs : Joint Forest Management Committees km : Kilometer lac : Lakh m : Meter Maintt. : Maintenance MI : Management Interventions NAEB : National Afforestation and Ecodevelopment Board NAP : National Afforestation Programme No : Number NTFP : Non Timber Forest Produce Nur. : Nursery PCCF : Principal Chief Conservator of Forests PD : Pasture Development Ph. : Physical PRA : Participatory Rural Appraisal RMH : Regeneration of Medicinal Herbs RO : Range Officer Rs : Rupees SC : Scheduled Caste SGVSY : Samanvit Gram Vanikaran Samridhi Yojna SMS : Soil and Moisture Conservation SPD : Silivi Pasture Development Sr.No. : Serial Number ST : Scheduled Tribe VDF : Village Development Fund VFC : Village Forest Committee Yrs : Years
To
Sh. Ashok Kumar Under Secretary to Government of India Ministry of Environment and Forests, GOI National Afforestation and Eco-development Board 7th Floor, Paryavaran Bhawan, CGO Complex Lodhi Road, New Delhi- 110 003 Fax No: 011-24361704 Subject: First concurrent evaluation of projects under National Afforestation Programme (NAP) being implemented through Forest Development Agencies (FDAs). Sir, Please find enclosed herewith five copies of first concurrent evaluation report of Forest Development Agency (FDA), Ramban (J&K) for the year 2008-09. You are therefore, requested to release the balance amount at the earliest.
Thanking you
Yours faithfully,
Regional Coordinator/Director
EVALUATION OF ADVANCE NURSERY WORK
EVALUATION OF PLANTATION WORK
EVALUATION OF ENTRY POINT ACTIVITIES