Vol. 7, Issue 8, Part C (2025)

Forests play a vital role in sustaining human livelihoods by providing essential resources, among which fuelwood remains the most widely used energy source in rural areas. In India, nearly 70% of the population relies on fuelwood for daily cooking and heating needs, particularly in remote mountainous regions where alternative energy sources are scarce. The present study was undertaken to analyze patterns of fuelwood consumption, species preference, and ecological consequences in two villages—Chhani and Lanchaan—of Bhaderwah Forest Division, Jammu and Kashmir. The research employed general surveys and household interviews to assess dependence on forest resources. Findings revealed that a total of 12 plant species, including Pinus wallichiana, Pinus roxburgii, Cedrus deodara, Quercus floribunda, Quercus leucotrichophora, Quercus semicarpifolia, Lyonia ovalifolia, Aesculus indica, Pyrus pashia, Indigofera sp., Alnus nitida, and Abies pindrow, were exploited for fuelwood. Among these, Cedrus deodara, Quercus floribunda, and Pinus wallichiana emerged as the most preferred due to their higher calorific value, ease of ignition, and abundant availability. However, unsustainable extraction of these species has intensified forest degradation, threatening biodiversity and disrupting ecological balance. The long winter season, lasting up to five months, exacerbates the demand for continuous heating, thereby increasing the harvesting pressure on forest stands. The study concludes that the current patterns of fuelwood consumption are ecologically unsustainable, necessitating urgent policy interventions. Promoting alternative renewable energy sources, raising community awareness, and implementing forest conservation strategies are crucial to mitigating overexploitation. A sustainable energy transition is imperative to balance household needs with long-term forest health in the Bhaderwah region.