Vidarbha Forest Projects Receive Rs 4.29 Crore for Wildlife Conservation
The Maharashtra government has allocated a substantial sum of Rs 4.29 crore for various forest projects in the Vidarbha region under the state's 'Nature Conservation and Wildlife Management' programme for the current financial year. This funding is part of a broader statewide initiative aimed at protecting and preserving natural habitats and wildlife.
Statewide Sanction and Major Allocations
A government resolution issued by the revenue and forest department has sanctioned a total of Rs 17.5 crore across Maharashtra under this scheme. Within Vidarbha, the allocations are strategically distributed to key areas with significant ecological importance.
The Bramhapuri territorial division has been earmarked the largest share, receiving Rs 2 crore. Following this, Wardha district has been allocated Rs 1.10 crore, while the Pench tiger project in Nagpur district receives Rs 73 lakh, and Chandrapur district gets Rs 46 lakh. These funds are intended to support activities focused on conservation and management efforts in these regions.
Scheme Framework and Expenditure Guidelines
The 'Nature Conservation and Wildlife Management' scheme operates under the Forestry and Wildlife and Wildlife Preservation category. It is an integral component of the state plan dedicated to the protection, conservation, and management of wildlife and their natural habitats.
Expenditure under this scheme is to be incurred through the budget distribution system, strictly in accordance with the guidelines set by the finance department. The funds are divided into two primary heads: labour-related components and procurement of materials.
Statewide, Rs 12 crore has been allocated for labour-related activities, and Rs 5.50 crore is designated for the procurement of supplies and materials. This structured approach ensures that resources are utilized efficiently to achieve conservation goals.
Proposal Basis and Approval Requirements
The allocations are based on detailed proposals submitted by the additional principal chief conservator of forests (budget, planning and development) in Nagpur. These proposals outline the specific needs and planned activities for each region, ensuring that funding is directed towards priority areas.
The government resolution explicitly directs that administrative and technical approvals must be secured before any expenditure is incurred. This measure is in place to maintain transparency, accountability, and adherence to regulatory standards in the implementation of conservation projects.
This financial commitment underscores the state's dedication to enhancing forest conservation and wildlife management efforts in Vidarbha, aiming to safeguard biodiversity and promote sustainable ecological practices.
