Srinagar, Apr 20: A meeting of the Forest Officers Welfare Association (Retd) was held at the Forest PC Depot here under the chairmanship of Sheikh Bashir Ahmad, where participants deliberated on key environmental concerns and welfare issues affecting retired personnel.

The meeting brought together former forest officers who discussed the need for effective implementation of an eco-tourism policy, promotion of a clean environment, and greater awareness among the public, particularly school students, on environmental conservation.

Members underscored the importance of strengthening plantation drives under the Green Jammu & Kashmir mission and called for sustained efforts to preserve the region’s ecological balance.

Highlighting social responsibilities, the association reaffirmed its commitment to the “Nasha Mukt” campaign, aligning itself with the ongoing anti-drug initiative being carried out under the 100-day campaign across the Union Territory.

The meeting also took up several service-related matters, including the removal of pay anomalies in light of the High Court of Jammu’s decision in SLP No. 177/2016. Other demands raised included provision of free accommodation during forest-related events and exemption from toll taxes for retired officers.

Issues concerning pensioners were also discussed at length, particularly in the context of the forthcoming 8th Pay Commission. The association announced that a delegation led by Sheikh Bashir Ahmad will visit New Delhi on April 27 to take up the concerns of forest employees and pensioners with the concerned authorities.

The participants expressed gratitude to PCCF/HoFF and CCF Central Dr. Anand (IFS) for their continued support and for recognising the contributions of retired officers through the issuance of appreciation certificates.