Chandigarh, April 15
The Haryana government on Wednesday approved an annual plan of Rs 298 crore through the Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority. The plan aims to increase tree planting, use more renewable energy, protect wildlife, and involve local communities in conservation efforts.
The decision was made during the 10th Steering Committee meeting, led by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi. Officials say this is one of Haryana’s most comprehensive forest and environment plans in recent years.
The plan includes planting over 20 lakh saplings on 1,882 hectares and maintaining existing plantations on 4,518 hectares.
To help reduce urban pollution and heat, dense forests will be created on 16 hectares in cities and semi-urban areas using the Miyawaki technique.
The state will install 15 KW solar power systems in forest offices in all 22 districts. This should lower electricity costs and reduce carbon emissions from government buildings.
The plan also allocates over Rs 33 crore to treat catchment areas in the Shivalik Hills and the Aravalli Range. The focus will be on soil conservation, water harvesting, and the restoration of damaged land. These projects are also expected to create local jobs. For protection, the government has approved the construction of 20 new forest check posts, the deployment of 60 additional forest watchers and the procurement of patrolling and rescue vehicles for wildlife. Residential quarters for frontline staff have also been sanctioned.
One key part of the plan is a new environmental awareness program called Haritima Hariyali ka Rang Haryana ke Sang. As part of this, 70 eco-camps will be held for students in classes 6 to 10 from government schools, giving them a chance to visit forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and ecotourism sites.
Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi said the plan is a strategic investment in Haryana’s environmental future. He called for clear results, timely action, and full accountability. A special Project Management Unit will help coordinate, and external monitoring will ensure funds are used transparently.
The plan will now go to the National CAMPA for final approval. Once approved, it will be implemented across Haryana. The initiative aims to increase green cover, improve air quality, create local jobs, and strengthen the state’s environment.
