The MoU aims to demonstrate cost-effective and site-specific soil and water conservation measures ; capacity building of ETF on the different aspects of soil and water conservation and afforestation

The ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Dehradun and 127 Infantry Battalion (TA) Ecological, Garhwal Rifles (Eco-Task Force – ETF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the scientific planning, execution and monitoring of afforestation work carried out by the ETF. 

Dr P.R. Ojasvi, Director, ICAR-IISWC and Col. Vedvrat Vaidya, C.O., 127 Eco Task Force signed the MoU on the behalf of their respective organizations. 

The MoU aims to suggest the suitable species of trees, shrubs and grasses for the afforestation works on the different locations and sites selected by the ETF; demonstration of cost-effective and site-specific soil and water conservation measures in selected areas; capacity building of ETF on the different aspects of soil and water conservation and afforestation. This includes the nursery raising, soil working techniques, transportation of saplings, protection, etc.; impact assessment of earlier afforestation works of ETF in terms of carbon stock, diversity and other eco-system services and up-scaling of the validated interventions by the ETF. 

Dr D.V. Singh, Nodal Officer for the intended collaborative work, ICAR-IISWC, Dehradun outlined the vital points of the MoU. Major Vishal Raizada, Eco Task Force, Dehradun was also present during the occasion.