59 lakh saplings planted: Forest minister
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, July 29 2022:
Forest minister Th Biswajit Singh informed the state assembly that the target of planting 75 lakh tree saplings of different varieties in commemoration of 75th year of India's independence being celebrated as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotav would be achieved with ease.
Beginning from Van Mahotsav celebration, around 59 lakh saplings have been planted so far and the target of planting 75 lakh saplings would be achieved by August 31, informed Biswajit during Friday's session of the assembly.
Replying to Policy Cut Motions raised by Opposition members and observations made by treasury bench during discussion on Demand for Grants of forest and environment, minister Biswajit said that further tree plantation drives to achieve the target will be continued with the involvement of school and college students.
He also expressed hope that majority of saplings planted this year would survive as rain started in the state early.
He also informed the House that the forest department has procured more than 100 arms and 49 forest guards and officials are being trained on handling of arms to protect forest and wildlife.
Opposition members K Ranjit, K Meghachandra, Th Lokeshwar and Surjakumar Okram raised Policy Cut Motions but withdrew the same thereby passing the demand unanimously.