Karnataka Unveils ₹100-Crore Afforestation Plan to Combat Ecological Challenges

On October 15th, 2025, Karnataka's Forest, Ecology, and Environment Minister Eshwar B. Khandre warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found encroaching on forest land. The Minister stressed the urgent need to preserve environmental balance amid growing ecological challenges.

Speaking at the golden jubilee celebrations of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), Mr. Khandre announced that a ₹100-crore afforestation project under a 50:50 cost-sharing model between the Forest Department and the Kalyana Karnataka Regional Development Board (KKRDB) would soon be launched in five districts of the region that had low forest cover. The action plan is expected to be approved within the next 15 days, and afforestation work will begin immediately.

Highlighting ongoing initiatives, the Minister said a Lumbini Park had already been established in Kalaburagi, while a zoological park at Madabool in Chittapur taluk is being developed at a cost of ₹33 crore, where animals like tigers and lions will be housed. Additionally, a trekking facility at Chandrampalli in Chincholi taluk has also been launched.

The Minister emphasized that reckless exploitation of natural resources driven by human greed had led to widespread pollution of air, water, and food, resulting in serious health issues. He stressed that protecting the environment is crucial for the future, as the world witnessed the tragic consequences of oxygen scarcity during the COVID-19 pandemic.