PCCM expresses concern over damage of forest

Shillong, July 11 (UNI) Several Parliamentary Consultative Committee Members(PCCM) have expressed concern over the damage of forest in the country, particularly in the Northeast, following jhum cultivation (shifting farming).

The PCCM in a meeting yesterday in New Delhi chaired by Union minister of state for Environment and forests, Namo Narain Meena, urged the ministry to preserve virgin forests in the northeast and take possible steps to save it, official sources today said.

The members also urged the minister to save the forests from jhum cultivation by providing alternative means to jhumia tribals who are following this practice for centuries.

Jhum cultivation on hills and semi-hills is the main source of agriculture to the tribals in the region. They not only cultivate paddy but also vegetables, cotton, and other valuables commodities by practicing jhum cultivation. Before begining cultivation, they set fire in the forest which causes damage to the forests including bamboo, grass and other valuable trees, sources informed.

The sources further informed that the Union Minister has stated in the Parliamentary Consultative Committee meeting that the ministry is aware of the serious challenges and working out a plan to control pollution and for the rapid economic development not only in the northeast but throughout the country for various reasons.

The Members also expressed concern about lack of coordination between Central and States scheme. They raised voice for steps to be taken to control global warming and climate change, the sources stated.

Members of Parliament Ananta Nayak, Mahaveer Bhagora, Mani Charenamai, Basudeb Barman, Ramji Lal Suman, M Baburao and K E Ismail attended the meeting, sources said.

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