Haryana Approves ₹298 Cr Green Plan

Haryana has greenlit a comprehensive forest and environment action plan, an Annual Plan of Operations valued at ₹298.43 crore, under the Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). This strategic investment aims to significantly enhance the state's ecological resilience.

The extensive plantation program is a cornerstone of the plan, targeting the planting of over 20 lakh saplings across 1,882 hectares. Alongside this, existing plantations spanning 4,518 hectares will receive maintenance to ensure long-term survival and growth.

To combat urban heat and pollution, 16 hectares will be developed into dense urban forests using the Miyawaki technique. This initiative is expected to improve air quality in urban areas.

Conservation efforts in ecologically sensitive regions will see an outlay of over ₹33 crore for Catchment Area Treatment works in the Shivalik Hills and Aravalli Range. These projects will focus on soil and water conservation, and landscape restoration.

The plan also enhances forest and wildlife protection with provisions for 20 new forest check posts, 60 additional forest watchers, and new patrolling vehicles. This strengthens surveillance and response capabilities.

A key people-centric initiative is "Haritima: Hariyali ka Rang, Haryana ke Sang," an environmental awareness program for students. This program aims to instill environmental consciousness through experiential learning at various eco-sites across the state.

Installation of 15 KW solar power systems in forest offices across 22 districts is planned to reduce reliance on conventional electricity and cut carbon emissions.

To ensure accountability, the plan includes third-party monitoring and evaluation, alongside the establishment of a dedicated Project Management Unit to streamline implementation and coordination.