In a groundbreaking initiative, the Uttarakhand Forest Department has introduced the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in preparing working plans for more efficient and sustainable forest management.
Sanjiv Chaturvedi, the Chief Conservator of Forest, Working Plan, explained that the use of AI is being implemented on a pilot basis, with promising results.
“We have started the use of AI on a pilot basis in preparing a working plan for the Garhwal Forest Division, and the initial results are very encouraging. We have obtained excellent analysis and management prescriptions for better biodiversity conservation, sustainable forest management, and addressing the challenges of climate change’s impact on vegetation,” Chaturvedi said.
Uttarakhand, known for its vast forests, covers nearly two-thirds of its total area, which includes tropical forests in the plains, temperate forests in the mid-Himalayan region, and alpine meadows at high altitudes.
Every Forest Division in Uttarakhand prepares a comprehensive working plan for a period of 10 years, involving a detailed ground exercise. This includes collecting data on biodiversity, wildlife, watershed areas, and potential threats to the ecosystem. Based on this data, management prescriptions are suggested and later approved by the Central Government.
As per a Supreme Court order, any activity within forest areas can only be undertaken following the approval of these working plans.
Chaturvedi further detailed how advanced AI software is being used to analyze field data on forest types and tree species composition. This has led to better ecosystem analysis, allowing for clear identification of priority species and areas requiring specific management interventions. AI tools also aid in determining suitable silvicultural systems for different forest types and assess the stability of ecosystems based on species composition.
Encouraged by the results in the Garhwal Forest Division, the Uttarakhand Forest Department plans to extend the use of AI to other forest divisions across the state.