Chandigarh, July 28 – Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini emphasized the importance of conserving nature, calling it the foundation of life and a top priority. Speaking at the State-Level Van Mahotsav organized by the Forest Department in Kalesar, Yamunanagar, he reminded citizens not to exploit nature in the name of development but to live in harmony with it. “When we plant a tree, we plant a source of life and a new hope,” he said.
Before the event, the CM offered prayers at the Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple, seeking prosperity and well-being for the state. He also inaugurated the newly constructed Forest Department Rest House and participated in a tree plantation drive during the event.
Developing Kalka to Kalesar as a Tourism Hub
Referring to Kalesar, the Chief Minister said it is not only environmentally important but also a major attraction for tourists, nature enthusiasts, and trekkers. The government is working on transforming the entire Kalka to Kalesar belt into a tourism hub.
Haryana to Plant 21 Million Trees in 2024
CM Saini highlighted that Haryana has undertaken several initiatives to expand green cover. Under the central campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on World Environment Day (June 5, 2024), the state exceeded its target by planting 1.87 crore trees against a goal of 1.6 crore in the first phase.
In the second phase, Haryana has set a target of 90 lakh trees, along with another 1.2 crore trees through other state schemes this year, totaling 2.1 crore trees.
Crackdown on Illegal Logging, Wildlife Conservation Measures
The CM stated that the state has launched special urban forestry initiatives to increase greenery in cities and taken strict measures to stop illegal tree cutting and protect wildlife. Security in Kalesar National Park has been intensified, and illegal poaching has been completely curbed. As a result, herds of 8 to 10 elephants were spotted in the area in April, October, and February last year. The rehabilitation of elephants has been carried out in Bansantor, and jeep safaris and study tours for children have been initiated to raise awareness about forests and wildlife.
Check Dams for Wildlife and Groundwater
The state has also launched the Green Aravalli Action Plan in South Haryana, a joint project of the central and state governments covering the Aravalli ranges in four states, including Haryana. In total, 29 districts across the four states have been selected, five of which are in Haryana. Check dams have been constructed in hilly areas like the Shivalik range to ensure drinking water for wildlife and improve groundwater levels.
Praan Vayu Devta Pension Scheme
In recognition of trees aged over 75 years, the state has implemented the Praan Vayu Devta Pension Scheme, which provides ₹3,000 annually per tree for their maintenance. So far, ₹1 crore has been disbursed to caretakers of 3,800 trees under the scheme. Since October 2014, approximately 18 crore trees have been planted across the state.
The Forest Department will also monitor all past and current plantations using geo-tagging and drones, and the growth of each plant will be tracked for five years to ensure long-term green coverage.
Launch of Forest Awareness Booklets
CM Saini unveiled two publications – Haryana Forest News and Praan Vayu Devta – which aim to spread awareness about forest conservation. He described them not merely as information sources but as integral parts of the government’s awareness campaign.
Haryana Forest News will provide updates on the department’s initiatives, achievements, and challenges, while the Praan Vayu Devta booklet offers detailed insights into the importance of trees, their benefits, and methods for their preservation.
Ministers Urge Public Participation in Tree Care
Environment and Forest Minister Rao Narbir Singh stated that the long-term impact of the “One Tree in Mother’s Name” campaign would be significant and urged citizens to actively participate in tree planting and maintenance.
MLA Ghanshyam Das Arora also appealed to the public to take care of saplings for at least one year after planting, emphasizing that trees are life-givers, and planting more of them is essential to protect the environment.
Upon arrival at the event, the CM was warmly welcomed by Additional Chief Secretary (Forest) Anand Mohan Sharan and local leaders.
Notable attendees included Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Vineet Kumar Garg, former Cabinet Minister Kanwar Pal, CM’s OSD Bharat Bhushan Bharti, Deputy Commissioner Parth Gupta, and several other dignitaries.
