By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: After the separation of Jharkhand, Bihar’s green cover has significantly reduced. The Bihar government has been actively working to enhance greenery across Bihar. Forest and Environment Minister Prem Kumar announced that a target has been set to plant approximately 20 crore saplings by 2028. To achieve this, the Forest Department will establish 246 nurseries, where around 8 crore plants will be cultivated.
‘One crore plants are produced every year’
Minister Prem Kumar stated that the current green cover in Bihar stands at approximately 15 percent, with plans to increase it to 17 percent as part of the fourth agriculture roadmap. To facilitate this, large-scale afforestation initiatives will be undertaken throughout the state. Addressing the availability of saplings, the minister noted that Bihar currently has 193 farmer-run nurseries and 300 operated by Jeevika Didis, collectively producing one crore plants annually. These saplings will be distributed to farmers and the general public.
‘Proposal prepared to combat pollution’
The minister further revealed that the government has drafted a detailed proposal to meet this ambitious target, with work set to commence next month. Special focus will be placed on areas experiencing rising levels of air pollution. The state government will identify such districts and prioritise extensive tree plantations to mitigate pollution and improve environmental health.
