Forest Minister launches agar tree plantation programme
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, July 27 2018:
Forest and Environment Minister Th Shyamkumar along with Forest Department officials launched agar tree plantation program, organised by Forest Department at Utangpokpi village, Chakpikarong Sub-division under Chandel districttoday.
Addressing the villagers of Utangpokpi, Minister Shyamkumar said that the agar plantation will help the locals in increasing their income.
He stated that plantation of agar tree saplings had started in the surrounding areas of Utangpokpi village and is continuing till today.
Stating that the Government is taking such initiative for the welfare of public and the environment, he appealed to all the villagers to protect and safeguard the trees planted today.
He said agar plantation is likely to generate income of around Rs 30,000 to 40,000 per tree (after a gap of 7-8 years) which can be a source of income for the villagers and improve the State's revenue as well.
Stating that agar tree needs specific climatic conditions, he said Chandel, Jiribam, Kamjong and Moreh are the most appropriate and suitable areas for plantation of agar trees.
He opined that Departments of Horticulture and Soil Conservation and Forest need to work hand in hand for the welfare of the villagers.
Horticulture and Soil Conservation Department will soon take up developmental programs, he assured.
On the other hand, villagers appreciated the Minister and the officials for organising the program and stated that it has infused a new ray of hope among the villagers.
The villagers also drew the attention of the Minister over the bad road condition, poor fencing at the agar plantation site, absence of watchman and lack of forest fire protection materials, lack of bamboo plantation scheme etc.
The plantation program was attended by Principle Chief Conservator of Forest & Head of Forest Force K Angami, Chief Conservator of Forest (Territorial-II) Dhananjay Singh, Conservator of Forest (Eastern Circle) W Yaiskul Singh, Khuraijam Sanajaoba, Divisional Forest Officer, Chandel Forest Division.