Kashmir has 8,128 sq km total forest cover, with 42 forest types in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.
Kashmir has 8,128 sq km total forest cover, with 42 forest types in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. In 2021, forest cover increased by 348 sq km. Forests are vital for Kashmir's economy, supporting industries and providing habitat for wildlife. Hundreds of casual labourers in the wildlife department risk their lives daily to control forest fires and tranquillise wild animals in residential areas. In addition to the occupational risks, they face hardship due to unpaid salaries and inadequate compensation impacting their families.