Forest training on climate project ends in Sundernagar

A four-day training programme on exit strategies under the Himachal Pradesh Forest Ecosystem Climate Adaptation Project (KfW) concluded successfully at the Himachal Pradesh Forest Academy in Sundernagar, Mandi district.

Attended by participants from Kangra and Chamba districts, the programme aimed to build local capacity in forest fire management, forest conservation and sustainable community engagement. A key focus was on empowering Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) and promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities through Self-Help Groups (SHGs).

Participants received in-depth training on the importance of community-driven forest governance, along with practical guidance on strengthening SHGs to support long-term conservation goals.

As part of their field exposure, the trainees visited the Suket Forest Division and Wildlife Division in Kullu, where they studied SHGs formed under the JICA project. The visit offered hands-on insights into bookkeeping, operational practices and livelihood activities undertaken by these groups.