The Uttarakhand Forest Department has started using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve forest management, making it the first state to do so. This initiative is being tested on a pilot basis, and the results so far are promising, according to Chief Conservator of Forests, Sanjiv Chaturvedi.
Chaturvedi explained that AI is currently being used to prepare a working plan for the Garhwal Forest Division.
The initial findings have provided valuable insights and recommendations for better biodiversity conservation, sustainable forest management, and addressing the impact of climate change on vegetation.
Uttarakhand's forests cover about two-thirds of the state, ranging from tropical forests in the plains to temperate forests in the mid-Himalayas and alpine meadows in higher altitudes.
Every Forest Division prepares a 10-year working plan based on extensive ground-level data collection. This includes information on biodiversity, wildlife, watershed areas, and potential threats.
These plans are then analysed and submitted for approval by the Central Government, as required by a Supreme Court order, which mandates that all forest activities must align with these plans.
The use of AI has introduced advanced software that analyses field data, such as forest types and tree species. This helps identify priority species and areas that need specific management.
AI also aids in selecting the most suitable forest management techniques and provides assessments of ecosystem stability based on species composition.
Following the positive results in the Garhwal Forest Division, the Uttarakhand Forest Department plans to expand AI-based management to other Forest Divisions across the state.
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