Seven crore sapplings will be planted this year: Dr. Raman Singh

Chief Minister takes part in ‘Van Mahotsav’ 
Raipur, Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh today said that seven crore sapplings will be planted during the Hariyar Chhattisgarh Afforestation Mega- Mission in this monsoon. He participated in the afforestation programme at the Pandit Ravishankar Shukla University along with the school-college and University students. Dr. Raman Singh planted ‘Krushnavat’ (Bad) sapplings which have medicinal properties and are also known as ‘ Makkan Katori’.

Dr. Raman Singh also called upon the gathering to take an oath to protect and conserve environment and wild-life and to spread awareness regarding nature and greenery. Chief Minister said that it was the bounden duty of all concerned to safeguard environment. Afforestation like programmes brings us closer to nature and our role in protecting earth helps those all- round. When the children of today grow up and observe the trees grow along with then they will feel immense sense of joy and peace.

Chief Minister said that the target is to plant seven crore sapplings this year. The society gets the message of conserving environment by participating in this sort of programme. There is a need to protect sapplings also.

Forest Minister Mr. Mahesh Gaagda said that people’s participation is mandatory to make such programmes successful. Addition Principal Secretary (Forest Department) Mr. S. K. Khaitan revealed that ‘Van Mahotsav’ is being organized since the year 2007 to create awareness among the common masses. Chief Minister is totally dedicated for the conservation of environment. According the Union Government survey report 2017 there is an increase in afforestation by two hundred square kilometer. Around 9, 700 sapplings were planted today on the 7.2 hectare Pandit Ravishankar Shukla University campus. The sapplings include- Molsri, Aawla, peepal, coconut, guava, kathal and haldu and other fruit-bearing ones.

Public Works Minister Mr. Rajesh Munat, MLA Mr. Sreechand Sundrani, Chhattisgarh Seeds Corporation Chairman Mr. Shyam Bais, forest Development Corporation Mr. Sreenivas Rao Maddi, Vice-Chancellor Dr. K . L. Verma and senior officers of the district were also present. divisional Forest officer Mr. Uttam Gupa proposed a vote of thanks.