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“Tree Aadhaar” Mission
Context:
The “Tree Aadhaar” mission launched by the Jammu & Kashmir government is a significant step toward preserving the region’s iconic chinar trees. This initiative focuses on creating a detailed census of these majestic trees, granting each one a unique identity for conservation purposes.
The term “chinar” is believed to have been coined by the Mughals, possibly by Emperor Jahangir. The name comes from a Persian phrase, “Che naar ast”, which translates to “What flame is that?” in reference to the tree’s crimson leaves during the autumn season.
What is a Chinar Tree?
- Scientific Name: Platanus orientalis var. cashmeriana (also known as Oriental plane tree).
- Characteristics: The chinar tree is known for its large canopy, maple-like leaves, and ability to thrive in cool climates with ample water. These trees can grow up to 30 meters tall with a girth ranging between 10 to 15 meters. It takes 30-50 years for a chinar tree to mature and 150 years to reach full size.
- Historical Significance: The chinar is native to the Eastern Himalayas and holds deep cultural and historical importance in Kashmir.
Importance of Chinar Trees in Kashmir
- Cultural Significance: The chinar is considered the state tree of Jammu & Kashmir (now a Union Territory). The tree is integral to Kashmiri art, literature, and crafts, often depicted in papier mâché, embroidery, carpet weaving, and wood carvings.
- Tourism and Aesthetics: The changing colours of the chinar leaves, especially during autumn when they turn crimson red and golden, attract many tourists.
- Religious and Historical: The chinar also features prominently in the region’s Muslim and Hindu shrines. The oldest surviving chinar in Kashmir, around 700 years old, is located in Chattergam village and is believed to have been planted by a Sufi saint.
The Chinar Conservation Project (Tree Aadhaar Mission)
- Purpose: The primary goal of the Tree Aadhaar initiative is to monitor, protect, and conserve these iconic trees by creating a comprehensive census of the Chinar population.
- The Process:
- Census and Enumeration: The government has begun by conducting a district-wise census of chinar trees across the Kashmir valley and Chenab region.
- Geo-Tagging and Tree Aadhaar: Every tree identified in the census is assigned a unique identity, known as Tree Aadhaar, and geo-tagged to track its location and status.
- Progress of the Project: As of now, 28,560 chinar trees have been enumerated and geo-tagged, with an estimated total of 32,000 to 33,000 chinar trees in the region.
- Technological Innovations: QR Code Tags: To further enhance monitoring and conservation, the government has introduced metallic QR codes on each chinar tree.
- These codes, when scanned, provide detailed information on 25 parameters about each tree, including:
- Location (longitude and latitude).
- Age, height, girth, and number of branches.
- Health of the tree and eco-threats it faces.
- Canopy size and overall condition.
- These codes, when scanned, provide detailed information on 25 parameters about each tree, including:
Challenges
- Illegal Cutting: Despite requiring government approval, some chinar trees are felled illegally.
- Untracked Trees: Trees in restricted areas remain unmonitored.
- Environmental Threats: The health and survival of chinar trees are affected by urbanisation, pollution, and climate change.
Impacts and Future Outlook
- Conservation: By providing a unique identity to each tree, the mission helps in monitoring and preserving the Chinar population.
- Heritage Preservation: The initiative ensures that the cultural and historical significance of Chinar trees is maintained for future generations.
- Public Awareness: The QR codes and digital information make it easier for the public to learn about and appreciate these iconic trees.
