Social Forestry Day, observed annually on 2nd June, is a significant national event aimed at promoting awareness and community participation in sustainable forest management across Bhutan. The day holds particular historical and cultural importance as it commemorates the coronation anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck—a revered environmental visionary and the principal architect of Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness and forest conservation.
Each year, Social Forestry Day is marked with active participation of communities, schools, institutions, and local governments through tree plantation and forest conservation initiatives. This year’s observance is particularly noteworthy as it focuses on the restoration of forests and landscapes affected by wildfires—an escalating concern due to the impacts of climate change and anthropogenic activities.
The Department of Forests and Park Services (DoFPS), under the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MoENR), observed the event under the theme: “Celebrating Social Forestry Day- A Tribute to His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s Legacy of Conservation and Environmental Stewardship”.
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As part of the nationwide initiative, tree plantations were carried out in a minimum of 2 hectares across 24 Field Divisions and Protected Areas throughout 20 Dzongkhags. The program aims to promote ecological restoration, raise public awareness, and encourage active community participation. Local governments, schools, institutions, and community-based organizations joined hands to plant native tree species, rehabilitate degraded ecosystems, and strengthen fire prevention efforts.
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A ceremonial plantation took place above Desi High School, covering an area of 2 hectares. The event was attended by invited dignitaries, teachers, students, and local community members. Additionally, a message from the Hon’ble Minister of Energy and Natural Resources highlighting the significance of Social Forestry Day was published to ensure broad public engagement. To promote the long-term sustainability of the plantation, a formal agreement was signed between the Thimphu Divisional Forest Office and Desi Higher Secondary School. Under the five-year agreement, the school will assume full responsibility for the care and maintenance of the plantation site. The plantation initiative is supported by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Bhutan Ecological Society (BES), and the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation (BTFEC). As part of a robust monitoring framework, all planted seedlings have been geo-tagged to facilitate systematic tracking of their growth and survival.
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The restoration of fire-affected areas with fire-resistant plant species with urban interface would significantly reduce the risk to life and property, enhance biodiversity, stabilize watersheds, and contribute to the livelihoods of local communities. These efforts also reinforce Bhutan’s longstanding commitment to remaining carbon neutral.
More profoundly, this year’s theme pays homage to the enduring legacy of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo as the Father of Environmental Conservation in Bhutan, His Majesty’s vision and leadership have laid the foundation for the Kingdom’s exemplary environmental stewardship.
The Department and Ministry urges all citizens to actively engage in tree planting and forest conservation efforts as a meaningful tribute to His Majesty’s enduring legacy and to contribute to Bhutan’s broader goals of environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation.
