Jammu and Kashmir’s iconic Chinar trees (Platanus orientalis), often referred to as the “soul of the valley,” are receiving a modern makeover, blending heritage conservation with cutting-edge technology. The J&K Forest Department and the J&K Forest Research Institute (FRI) have embarked on a groundbreaking project that assigns each Chinar tree a “digital tree Aadhar” for systematic preservation and monitoring.

What is the Digital Tree Aadhar Initiative?

Launched in 2021, this unique project employs Geographical Information System (GIS) technology to geotag and catalog Chinar trees across the region. By integrating traditional conservation techniques with modern innovation, the initiative aims to safeguard the dwindling population of these majestic trees, which are deeply intertwined with the culture and identity of Jammu and Kashmir.

Dr. Syed Tariq, Project Coordinator at FRI, shared insights into the meticulous work behind the project. “So far, we’ve geotagged 28,560 Chinar trees, creating a robust database to ensure their conservation,” he said. Each Chinar tree is equipped with a QR-based digital plate attached via a spring-enabled metal mechanism. This design allows the plate to expand as the tree grows, ensuring it remains intact for over 50 years without harming the bark.

Citizens can scan the QR codes using smartphones to access a treasure trove of information about each tree. The database contains 25 characteristics of every tree, including geographical location, health status, height, diameter at breast height (DBH), circumference, clear bole height, crown length, and remarks. Dr. Tariq emphasized that the data collection adheres to strict protocols, ensuring that every detail contributes to a comprehensive conservation plan.

Chinar Tree Hotspots in Kashmir

The project has revealed fascinating insights into the distribution of Chinar trees. Srinagar boasts the highest number of geotagged Chinars, followed by Ganderbal, Anantnag, and Baramulla. However, it is the Ganderbal district that stands out, home to a Chinar tree larger than the previously recorded largest in Asia. Girth at breast height (GBH): 22.25 meters and Height: 27 meters This remarkable discovery underscores the ecological and historical significance of these trees in the region.

In the current fiscal year, the project aims to geotag an additional 10,000 Chinar trees, further extending the digital network. Each tree will receive a unique QR plate, making it easier for authorities, researchers, and the public to access detailed information at the click of a button. The initiative is being funded under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) scheme, showcasing the government’s commitment to conserving this living heritage.

The collected data will be made available online through a dedicated website, streamlining conservation efforts by reducing redundant evaluations. This centralized database will allow stakeholders to monitor the health and status of Chinar trees in real-time, fostering accountability and transparency.

Beyond the technological aspects, the project also emphasizes public awareness. Dr. Tariq called for increased participation from government institutions, schools, and security forces in replanting efforts. Distributing saplings and promoting plantation drives are vital to ensuring the Chinar tree population remains robust for future generations. A Vegetative Multiplication Garden (VMG) has been proposed to produce high-quality saplings, supporting sustainable reforestation initiatives.

Why is Chinar Tree Preservation Crucial?

The Chinar tree holds profound cultural, historical, and ecological value. Often depicted in art, poetry, and folklore, these trees are synonymous with the beauty and resilience of Kashmir. However, their numbers have dwindled due to urbanization, environmental degradation, and neglect. Preserving these trees is not just about conserving nature but also about safeguarding a vital aspect of Jammu and Kashmir’s identity.

The digital tree Aadhar initiative represents a pivotal step in blending tradition with innovation to preserve the majestic Chinar trees of Jammu and Kashmir. By combining cutting-edge technology with community engagement and sustainable practices, this project ensures that these heritage trees remain a vibrant part of the region’s landscape for generations to come. As the initiative expands, it serves as a model for heritage conservation worldwide.