Srinagar: In order to modernise the forest governance through geospatial innovation, Jammu & Kashmir Forest department on Saturday formally inducted the use of Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) in survey and demarcation works.
The department organized a hands-on training cum workshop on DGPS for the frontline staff of Srinagar Forest Circle at the Forest Library, Sheikhbagh Forest Complex, Srinagar Saturday.
Workshop was inaugurated by Suresh Kumar Gupta, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force (HoFF), J&K. He was joined by Irfan Rasool Wani, Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir; Tawheed Ahmad Deva, Conservator of Forests, Srinagar Circle, and Divisional Forest Officers of Demarcation, Urban Forestry, Planning & Publicity and Agrostology Divisions, among other senior officers and technical experts.
During the workshop, PCCF underlined the critical importance of high-precision DGPS tools for accurate boundary demarcation, real-time monitoring of encroachments, resolution of legal disputes, and scientific land management. The precision offered by DGPS down to sub-centimeter level accuracy was highlighted as essential for improving field efficiency, legal defensibility, and long-term conservation outcomes.
Training was conducted by experts from M/s MAPPA, a reputed geospatial solutions provider. Participants were exposed to a comprehensive module covering the operational principles, data acquisition methods, and field deployment techniques of DGPS instruments. The hands-on field session enabled staff to practically engage with the equipment, ensuring conceptual clarity and skill enhancement.
This training is a continuation of the Department’s broader vision of mainstreaming digital technology and precision tools across forest divisions.
