Latest news with #BambooMission
Indian Express
6 days ago
- General
- Indian Express
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis sets target of planting 10 crore trees this year
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said that 10 crore trees will be planted this year under the 'Green Maharashtra, Prosperous Maharashtra' campaign to increase the forest cover in the state. A target for planting another 10 crore trees has been set for next year as well. Fadnavis on Wednesday held a meeting regarding the same emphasising that the campaign will succeed only if tree plantation becomes a public movement and everyone must work together for the same. 'Maharashtra is leading in increasing forest cover in the country. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam', Maharashtra has performed well. To achieve the goal of 33% forest cover, the campaign must continue for the next 20 years in a mission mode. In the past 8 years, Maharashtra has planted a large number of trees, successfully meeting earlier targets of 33 crore and 50 crore saplings. Hence, this year's target is achievable,' he said. Fadnavis suggested planting saplings that are at least 1.5 to 3 years old to ensure survival and growth adding that the efforts should be made to increase the survival rate using modern technologies like Artificial Intelligence, tools like remote sensing and satellite imagery to ensure transparency. Departments have been asked to allocate land and ensure quality saplings for the campaign. Local governing bodies and zilla parishads have been asked to actively participate by involving social organisations. He directed that tree species should be planted based on regional conditions and full use of funds available under CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority) should be made for this work. The responsibility for planting trees along national and state highways, as well as the palkhi routes, will now be given to the forest department. Also, with growing industrial development in Gadchiroli district, plans are being made to plant one crore trees there by next year. Additionally, largescale plantation will be undertaken on Jotiba hill. In Marathwada, especially in districts like Beed and Latur, where tree cover is very low, the forest department has been instructed to run special campaigns. The CM also mentioned that the Bamboo Mission should be treated as a mission for all departments and everyone must contribute. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar stated that while planting trees along highways, potential future road expansions must be considered and priority should be given. Forest Minister Ganesh Naik assured that the forest department will plant trees along highways. Full use of CAMPA funds will be made, and the 10-crore tree plantation campaign will be implemented successfully.
Hans India
14-05-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Bamboo can drive Mizoram's economy, generate jobs: CM Lalduhoma
Aizawl: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Wednesday emphasised that bamboo is a valuable resource in the state, one that can be utilised efficiently and sustainably while it can become a key driver of the local economy and create a significant number of jobs. Inaugurating key bamboo processing units, the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction at the new initiative under the National Bamboo Mission, describing it as a major development in bamboo-based industrial activity. The bamboo processing units were established with a funding of Rs 252.826 lakh at the Sairang Horticulture Centre under the National Bamboo Mission. The facilities include a bamboo treatment and seasoning plant, a bamboo depot and godown, and an activated charcoal unit (used for charcoal production). The Chief Minister said that with the advancement in bamboo processing, it can become a key driver of the local economy and create a significant number of jobs. He noted that charcoal is mostly produced from wood, and it takes years for trees to regenerate once harvested. However, bamboo regenerates fully within one to two years, and because of this rapid growth cycle and resilience, bamboo-based charcoal production is much more sustainable, Lalduhoma pointed out. He asserted that bamboo charcoal production would help protect the forests and natural environment. The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of proper operation and maintenance of the factory and processing plants. The Chief Minister urged workers to manage the new units efficiently and responsibly to ensure their long-term success. Horticulture Minister C. Lalsawivunga remarked that this marks a new era in bamboo processing in Mizoram. He noted the state is rich in bamboo resources and that proper utilisation of these resources would continue in a sustainable manner. Director of Horticulture and Missions Director of the State Bamboo Mission, C. H. Lalmuanpuia stated that the bamboo treatment and seasoning plant is a crucial facility for increasing the utility and durability of bamboo, with the potential lifespan of treated bamboo reaching up to 50 years. The bamboo depot and godown serve as essential storage and supply units. The activated charcoal unit can produce three tonnes of charcoal per day, aiming for an annual output of around 900 tonnes. Approximately 670 bamboo culms are required daily for operation. Additionally, around 100 litres of vinegar will be produced each day as a byproduct, and following proper distillation, up to 54 litres of refined vinegar can be extracted daily. Three bamboo clusters -- Chhingchhip, Baktawng, and Saiphal villages -- have already been established to supply bamboo to these units. The North East Cane and Bamboo Development Council (NECBDC) is providing technical support for these projects, and they will also be conducting training programmes to ensure effective implementation and management. Mizoram, neighbouring Tripura and other northeastern states are cultivating various species of bamboo in abundance, with about 28 per cent of India's bamboo forests located in the northeast region of India.
