Geo-tagging Chinar Tree

• Context (IE): Jammu & Kashmir government has launched the “Tree Aadhaar” mission to conserve declining chinar trees by giving them unique identities and geo-tagging them for monitoring.

About Chinar Tree

• Botanical Name: Oriental plane tree (Platanus orientalis var. cashmeriana).
• Habitat: Found in cool climates with ample water, primarily in Eastern Himalayas.
• Size: Grows up to 30 meters tall, with a girth of 10-15 meters.
• Growth: Takes 30-50 years to mature; reaches full size after 150 years.

Historical & Religious Importance

• Mughal Influence: Introduced by Mughals, particularly during Jahangir’s reign, who planted chinars in Naseem Bagh and Chaar Chinari.
• Religious Significance: Often found near Muslim and Hindu shrines in Kashmir.
• Cultural Significance: State tree of Jammu & Kashmir, featured in local art, craft, and literature.
• Artistic Signifiance: Chinar motifs are common in papier-mache, embroidery, carpets, and walnut wood carvings.
• Oldest Known Chinar Tree: Planted by a Sufi saint, is located in Chattergam village, central Kashmir.

Conservation Measures for Chinar Tree

• Government Permission for Tree Cutting: Cutting a chinar tree requires government approval, even on private property.
• Technology Utilization: The QR code system enhances tracking and conservation efforts, providing comprehensive data for monitoring the health and status of chinar trees.

Be Prelims Ready!

Tree Aadhaar Mission

• Census: A census of chinar trees across the Kashmir valley and Chenab region has been conducted.
• Geo-tagging: Each tree is assigned a unique identity (Tree Aadhaar) & geo-tagged for easy identification.
• Current Status: 28,560 trees geo-tagged, out of an estimated 32,000-33,000 trees.
• QR Code System: Metallic QR codes placed on trees provide data on 25 parameters, including:
  • Geographic location (longitude, latitude).
  • Tree’s age, height, girth, branch count, and health.
  • Canopy size and eco-threats.