What Initiatives Did Himachal CM Launch for Forest Conservation?
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Synopsis
On August 14, Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Sukhu kicked off the 76th Van-Mahotsav in Shimla, aiming to cover 9,000 hectares of forest through a Rs 100 crore initiative. This ambitious drive promotes biodiversity and public participation in afforestation efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Ambitious Target: 9,000 hectares of forest to be planted.
- Financial Commitment: Rs 100 crore budget for the initiative.
- Biodiversity Focus: Emphasis on fruit-bearing saplings.
- Community Involvement: Participation from local groups in sapling care.
- Future Goals: Aim for a 30% increase in forest cover by 2030.
Shimla, Aug 14 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Sukhu, officially launched the 76th state-level Van-Mahotsav in the Kanlog region of Shimla by planting a deodar sapling. This ambitious plantation initiative has a financial allocation of Rs 100 crore, aiming to span across 9,000 hectares of forest.
During the event, the Chief Minister also unveiled the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojna, designed for implementation in all Assembly constituencies, while engaging in a virtual discussion with ministers and legislators regarding forest preservation and afforestation strategies.
In his address, the Chief Minister emphasized that Van Mahotsav serves to underscore the vital role of forests, often referred to as the Earth's lifeline.
He stated, “This year, we plan to plant saplings over 9,000 hectares, including various fruit-bearing species.”
He noted the government's commitment to safeguarding and enhancing the rich biodiversity of the region, an effort aimed at achieving a 30 percent increase in forest cover by 2030.
Moreover, the Chief Minister remarked that the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojna will not only foster forest development but also boost community involvement and strengthen the rural economy.
Under this program, mahila mandals, yuvak mandals, self-help groups, and joint forest committees will be responsible for planting and nurturing saplings on designated forest land ranging from one to five hectares for a duration of five years.
This year, the plantation effort is set to cover 1,000 to 1,500 hectares at a cost of Rs 20 crore.
Additionally, a provision of Rs 1.2 lakh per hectare is allocated for the maintenance of saplings, the Chief Minister revealed. He also highlighted the government's focus on financial discipline for vyavastha parivartan and the implementation of reforms within the Forest Department.
Officials are being encouraged to dedicate more time to field-based activities related to forest expansion and conservation rather than routine office tasks. The Chief Minister mentioned that government initiatives aimed at facilitating self-employment opportunities for rural communities are also being recognized nationally.
He distributed cheques of Rs 1,00,000 each to mahila mandals for sapling planting under the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojna. In addition, cheques of Rs 50,000 each were awarded under the JICA project to beneficiaries for livelihood enhancement.
Point of View
The initiatives taken by the Himachal Pradesh government under CM Sukhvinder Sukhu reflect a commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement. The focus on afforestation and biodiversity preservation is crucial for combating climate change and ensuring sustainable development, aligning with national and global environmental goals.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the Van-Mahotsav?
The primary goal of Van-Mahotsav is to promote afforestation and raise awareness about the importance of forests in maintaining ecological balance.
How much budget has been allocated for the plantation drive?
A budget of Rs 100 crore has been allocated for the plantation drive.
What is the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojna?
The Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojna aims to promote forest development while enhancing public participation and strengthening the rural economy.
How many hectares are targeted for planting this year?
This year, the target is to cover 9,000 hectares with saplings.
What types of saplings are being planted?
The plantation will include various saplings, particularly fruit-bearing ones.
