Shimla, Sept 4,
BJP MLA Randhir Sharma questioned the Himachal Pradesh government during the Assembly session about the allocation and utilization of funds for the forest department. He specifically inquired about the survival rate of newly planted trees and alleged that the Rs 5.97 crore allocated for Bilaspur was being concentrated in the Ghumarwin assembly constituency.
Sharma criticized the government’s negligence in addressing forest fires, which have significantly impacted the survival rate of plantations. He pointed out that this year’s fires were particularly devastating, with almost zero survival rates.
In response, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu acknowledged the concerns raised by Sharma and explained that the survival rate of new plantations is typically between 50 and 60 percent. He attributed some losses to grazing by animals and emphasized the government’s commitment to improving these figures.
To enhance plantation efforts, the Chief Minister announced plans to involve Mahila Mandals (women’s self-help groups) in panchayats to ensure optimal utilization of funds. He also admitted that there had been a lack of focus on improving survival rates and called for a more ecological approach to plantation selection.
Addressing the issue of unequal distribution of funds, Sukhu acknowledged that influential individuals sometimes attempt to secure more resources for their respective constituencies. He assured the Assembly that the government would prioritize NainaDevi and other areas that have been neglected.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the need for a revised system to prevent officials from favoring ministerial constituencies. He announced plans to appoint “Van Mitras” (forest friends) to protect and monitor new plantations and develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) involving Mahila Mandals.
Sukhu further emphasized the importance of community involvement by offering incentives to women’s groups that contribute to plantation efforts. He concluded by expressing his concern about the survival of trees planted by his predecessor, Jai Ram Thakur, in the Oak Over region.
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