How is the Forest Department Planning to Raise Over 5 Lakh Tree Seedlings Under the Green Tamil Nadu Mission?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In an ambitious effort, the Forest Department of Pudukottai district plans to cultivate over 500,000 tree seedlings this financial year as part of the Green Tamil Nadu Mission. This initiative not only aims to increase green cover but also supports farmers' income through agroforestry.
Key Takeaways
- Over 500,000 seedlings will be raised in Pudukottai.
- Seedlings will be provided free of charge to various stakeholders.
- The initiative aims to enhance farmers' income through agroforestry.
- Initial nursery preparations are currently underway.
- The mission supports both ecological and economic growth.
Chennai, June 24 (NationPress) The Forest Department in Pudukottai district has been assigned the responsibility of cultivating over 500,000 seedlings of diverse tree species throughout the current financial year, as part of the Green Tamil Nadu Mission, officials reported.
This initiative is designed to expand green cover beyond forested areas while simultaneously boosting farmers' income through the promotion of tree cultivation on their lands.
As per official statements, these seedlings will be provided at no cost to farmers, government agencies, local bodies, and institutions.
The department has set “range-wise” targets for field officials and instructed them to commence immediate preparations for nursery establishment.
Pudukottai district is divided into six forest ranges: Pudukottai, Keeranur, Ponnamaravathy, Aranthangi, Tirumayam, and two Forest Extension ranges (I and II). Each of the Forest Extension Ranges is assigned a goal of raising over one lakh seedlings.
The Pudukottai Range will cultivate 55,000 seedlings, while the Keeranur and Ponnamaravathy Ranges will each produce 60,000 seedlings. The Aranthangi Range is tasked with 50,000 seedlings, and the Tirumayam Range will grow 40,000 seedlings.
Initial tasks such as soil gathering and mother bed creation have already commenced in nurseries located at Machuvadi, Thoppukollai, Kurumbur, and Vengalamedu.
The department intends to cultivate seedlings of various economically and ecologically significant tree species, including casuarina, teak, mahogany, red sanders, illupai (Indian butter tree), pungan (pongamia), and naaval (jamun).
The objective is to have these seedlings ready for distribution ahead of the northeast monsoon, allowing farmers to plant them during the October-November period.
A primary aim of the Green Tamil Nadu Mission is to encourage agroforestry by increasing tree cover on farmlands, which complements existing crops. The mission also seeks to create robust institutional marketing links for tree growers, aiding them in accessing improved income opportunities.
Point of View
The Green Tamil Nadu Mission not only contributes to ecological preservation but also empowers local farmers, fostering economic growth in the region. It’s a holistic approach that balances environmental needs with agricultural productivity.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Green Tamil Nadu Mission?
The Green Tamil Nadu Mission is an initiative aimed at increasing green cover in the state of Tamil Nadu while promoting agroforestry and enhancing farmers' income opportunities.
How many seedlings will be raised in Pudukottai?
The Forest Department aims to raise over 500,000 seedlings of various tree species in Pudukottai district during the current financial year.
Who will receive the seedlings?
The seedlings will be distributed free of charge to farmers, government departments, local bodies, and institutions.
What types of trees will be grown?
The initiative will focus on economically and ecologically important tree species such as casuarina, teak, mahogany, red sanders, illupai, pungan, and naaval.
What is the timeline for distributing the seedlings?
The seedlings are planned to be ready for distribution before the northeast monsoon, allowing farmers to plant them during the October-November window.
