BJP MLC cites ‘research', says Indian butterflies don't sit on foreign flowers
Speaking in the legislative council on Thursday, Bhartiya said a biotech focussed research also revealed that trees having 'foreign genetics' have higher mortality rates, thus impacting roadside tree plantation drives.
Bhartiya said, "Three years ago a research team revealed that trees with foreign genetics, like gulmohar and babool, have higher mortality rates. I want the govt to clarify if it can mandate plantation of India-based (sic) trees which have higher survival rates even when planted on the roadside."
Replying to his query, state public works minister Shivendrasinh Bhosale said the policy is already in place. "We always ensure that only those trees are planted which can survive in the local climatic condition. I am from Satara, and some specific trees thrive in the red soil of my taluka. We stick to these varieties during plantation drives. Our officials have been directed to plant trees which are suitable for local conditions," said Bhosale.
MLC Bhartiya added that the same research also revealed that butterflies no longer flock to PWD rest houses. "After 1989 hardly any butterflies are to be seen in the PWD rest house gardens as non-native plants are being used in the beautification drives. Butterflies do not come because the DNA of the foreign plants do not match their DNA. We need to plant mogra, jai and other species which are of Indian origin," said Bhartiya.
Bhosale assured Bhartiya that PWD officials will be directed to plant Indian-origin trees on their premises for beautification purposes.
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