Rajasthan Establishes Committee to Create Tree Protection Legislation
Synopsis
The Rajasthan government has formed a high-level committee to draft a Tree Protection Bill aimed at conserving Khejri trees and other vital species, reflecting a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
Key Takeaways
Formation of a high-level committee to draft the Tree Protection Bill.
The bill aims to protect Khejri trees and other vital species.
Input will be sought from legal experts and stakeholders.
Next meeting is scheduled for March 11 .
Stricter regulations on tree felling are expected.
Jaipur, March 9 (NationPress) In pursuit of a commitment to establish a dedicated law aimed at the conservation and safeguarding of Khejri trees along with other significant tree species, the state government has initiated the formation of a distinguished committee tasked with preparing a “Tree Protection Bill.”
The inaugural meeting of the committee took place under the guidance of Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel at his residence.
Revenue Minister Hemant Meena, Forest Minister Sanjay Sharma, the Principal Secretary of the Law Department, the Secretary of the Revenue Department, and various legal experts were present during this meeting.
During discussions, the committee examined the existing tree protection regulations in other states to craft a robust and legally sound structure that reduces the potential for litigation.
Prior to finalizing the draft bill, input from relevant departments, legal professionals, and other stakeholders is being gathered.
The next committee meeting is scheduled for March 11.
Presently, the Rajasthan Tenancy Act permits tree felling on agricultural land, imposing fines for unlawful cutting.
However, the impending legislation aims to implement stricter regulations for tree conservation across all land types, including allotted, converted, acquired, and inhabited (non-agricultural) lands.
Under the proposed guidelines, only a minimal number of trees may be removed from non-agricultural lands, and this requires authorization from a designated officer.
Officials stated that the Rajasthan government, led by Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, is dedicated to environmental conservation and the protection of Khejri trees, which are of profound cultural and ecological importance in the region.
Point of View
This initiative by the Rajasthan government reflects a growing awareness and commitment to environmental issues. By focusing on the protection of Khejri trees, which are culturally and ecologically significant, this legislation aims to set a benchmark for tree conservation efforts across India.
NationPress
7 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Tree Protection Bill?
The Tree Protection Bill aims to conserve and protect Khejri trees and other important species while establishing stricter regulations for tree felling across various land types.
Who is leading the committee responsible for drafting the bill?
The committee is chaired by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel.
When is the next meeting of the committee scheduled?
The next meeting of the committee is scheduled for March 11.
What current laws allow tree cutting in Rajasthan?
Under the Rajasthan Tenancy Act, tree felling is permitted on agricultural land, with penalties for illegal cutting.
What changes will the new bill introduce?
The new bill will impose stricter provisions on tree protection across all land types, requiring permission for any tree removal.
