Himachal Pradesh's Forest Department has set an ambitious target to plant five million saplings across 7,000 to 8,000 hectares during the current monsoon season. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force Sanjay Sood announced that plantations on approximately 4,000 hectares would be carried out under the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana. Preparations for the plantation campaign have already commenced at the divisional forest level across the state, with species like Chinar being selected based on the geographical and climatic conditions of different districts.
Mission-32: Increasing Green Cover to 32% by 2030
Sood emphasized the department's commitment to boosting the state's green cover to 32% by 2030 under Mission-32. District-wise plantation targets have been fixed to ensure the success of this year's Van Mahotsav campaign. The initiative aligns with the state government's broader environmental goals, aiming to enhance forest density and combat climate change.
Government Initiatives and Achievements
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the plantation campaign by planting a Chinar sapling in Shimla on June 5, World Environment Day. Under the Mukhyamantri Van Vistar Yojana, saplings of various species were planted on 124 hectares last year. Sood also noted that the JICA Forestry Project is playing a significant role in achieving the state's afforestation targets, providing technical and financial support for sustainable forest management.
Implementation and Oversight
Sood directed all Divisional Forest Officers to ensure effective implementation of the state's flagship forestry schemes, including the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana, Mukhyamantri Van Vistar Yojana, and the Rajiv Gandhi Green Adoption Scheme. These programs aim to involve local communities in conservation efforts and promote eco-friendly practices.
