Punjab to seek central aid for increasing forest cover

Chandigarh, Jan 16 (UNI) The Punjab Government will seek one time special Central Grant to meet the target of 15 per cent forest cover in the state by the year 2017.

Forests and Wildlife Minister Tikshan Sud today said that in the ensuing conference of Forest Ministers at New Delhi on February 14, Punjab would present a strong case for Central Grant for this project as increase in forest cover to was necessary to protect the fragile eco system in the area located at the foothills of Shivaliks. The Minister said that Punjab Government from its own funds cannot achieve this ambitious target and it was imperative for the Central Government to foot the bill of this project of national interest.

Mr Sud said that the state Government had already sought central funds for providing compensation to the farmers whose crops are destroyed by wild animals. The Minister said that keeping in view the rapid urbanisation and industrialisation taking place, the state government would seek seek relaxation in the Forest Conservation Act.

UNI HS MMS NC VC1840