Maharashtra CM Fadnavis sets target of planting 10 crore trees this year

“Maharashtra is leading in increasing forest cover in the country. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, Maharashtra has performed well. To achieve the goal of 33% forest cover, the campaign must continue for the next 20 years in a mission mode. In the past 8 years, Maharashtra has planted a large number of trees, successfully meeting earlier targets of 33 crore and 50 crore saplings. Hence, this year’s target is achievable,” he said.

Fadnavis suggested planting saplings that are at least 1.5 to 3 years old to ensure survival and growth adding that the efforts should be made to increase the survival rate using modern technologies like Artificial Intelligence, tools like remote sensing and satellite imagery to ensure transparency.

Departments have been asked to allocate land and ensure quality saplings for the campaign. Local governing bodies and zilla parishads have been asked to actively participate by involving social organisations. He directed that tree species should be planted based on regional conditions and full use of funds available under CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority) should be made for this work.

The responsibility for planting trees along national and state highways, as well as the palkhi routes, will now be given to the forest department. Also, with growing industrial development in Gadchiroli district, plans are being made to plant one crore trees there by next year. Additionally, largescale plantation will be undertaken on Jotiba hill.

In Marathwada, especially in districts like Beed and Latur, where tree cover is very low, the forest department has been instructed to run special campaigns. The CM also mentioned that the Bamboo Mission should be treated as a mission for all departments and everyone must contribute.

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar stated that while planting trees along highways, potential future road expansions must be considered and priority should be given. Forest Minister Ganesh Naik assured that the forest department will plant trees along highways. Full use of CAMPA funds will be made, and the 10-crore tree plantation campaign will be implemented successfully.