IFS Officers’ Team Studies Soil Conservation and Livelihood Initiatives in Dhamtari

Raipur : A team of Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers conducted a study on soil conservation and livelihood initiatives in Dhamtari Forest Division as part of Phase 3 of the Mid-Career Training (MCT) program of the National Forest Academy, Dehradun. The team consisted of 32 IFS officers from various states who visited Dhamtari to examine forest management and livelihood enhancement initiatives.

During the visit, CCF Raipur, Mr. Raju Agasimani, and DFO Dhamtari, Mr. Shrikrishna Jadhav, briefed the officers about the soil and moisture conservation efforts carried out at Pampar Nala. They explained how these initiatives are playing a crucial role in water conservation and biodiversity preservation in the region.

Additionally, the team inspected the Van Dhan Vikas Kendra (VDVK) in Dugli, where they interacted with self-help group (SHG) members and traditional healers. Discussions focused on value addition of minor forest produce (MFP), preservation of traditional medicinal knowledge, and the livelihood opportunities generated through VDVKs.

The success of this study tour was attributed to the efforts of Mr. Himanshu Dongre, IFS, Ms. Shweta Kamboj, IFS (Probationer), SDOs, RFOs, and field staff. The visiting officers appreciated the effective conservation strategies implemented by the Chhattisgarh Forest Department and the community-driven economic empowerment initiatives in the region.