In a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind initiative, the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department is developing Mitra Van (Friendship Forest) along the border between Uttar Pradesh and Nepal. This project aims to enhance green cover in districts bordering both neighboring states and international borders, thereby fostering environmental cooperation with these regions. It is a key component of the Vriksharopan Jan Abhiyan-2024.
To date, a major plantation drive has been completed. In the next phase, the Forest Department plans to involve dignitaries from other states and from Nepal in the ongoing plantation efforts.
Indian Masterminds recently spoke with Mr. Sudhir Kumar Sharma, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF&HoFF) of Uttar Pradesh and an IFS officer from the 1988 batch, to gain insights into this unique initiative.
THE MITRA VAN
Mitra Van is a concept and outreach program of the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department. Launched on July 20, this initiative is designed to carry out extensive tree plantation drives in UP’s bordering districts. Since some of these borders touch Nepal, the department decided to involve the people of Nepal in the project as well.
Uttar Pradesh aims to plant 175 crore saplings by 2027, with the goal of increasing green cover from 9.23% to 15% by 2030.
Sharma stated, “By participating in the plantation drive, they will also contribute to strengthening our relations with them.”
While the plantation drive will take place on land within UP, participants from Nepal will be involved in the planting activities. However, the responsibility for maintaining the trees will remain with us.
For this initiative, at least 35 forest divisions in the state have identified locations for establishing ‘Mitra Vans.’ In addition to Mitra Van, the department will also create ‘Shakti Van’ (Power Forest), ‘Yuva Van’ (Youth Forest), and ‘Bal Van’ (Children’s Forest). The program is scheduled to conclude on August 19.
Mr. Sharma added, “Although we have consistently conducted plantation drives, this year we introduced a new concept by involving neighboring states. This approach aims to showcase our extensive plantation efforts in UP and demonstrate our commitment to large-scale greening, while also extending the Forest Department’s activities beyond state borders.”
THE IMPLEMENTATION
To ensure the implementation and viability of the program, the Forest Department meticulously selected 35 locations. They prepared over 35 crore saplings in nurseries and marked plant species for dignitaries’ plantation. Coordination with neighboring states and Nepal was also carried out.
The DFOs from 35 forest divisions are working diligently to establish the Mitra Van.
“With this concept in mind, we will engage the residents of our bordering districts and neighboring states in this initiative,” Mr. Sharma added.
STATE TREE
A unique aspect of this project is the inclusion of state trees from neighboring states in these forests. For example, in the district bordering Bihar, the department will plant Bihar’s state trees. This outreach program is designed to showcase and promote the work of UP’s Forest Department beyond state borders.
He said, “Plantation activities are ongoing. Recently, 36 crore saplings were planted across the state. Simultaneously, planting is also underway at the 35 locations selected for Mitra Van. However, due to the current scattered rainfall, the planting pace has been slower than anticipated.”
COORDINATION EFFORTS
The Forest Department is collaborating with officials from neighboring states and Nepal to enhance coordination efforts. They have sought input on species selection for the plantations and ensured the availability of the necessary plants. Following this, the planting activities are taking place.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
The major part of the plantation initiative has been completed. However, there is an ongoing phase where planting is being carried out with community involvement.
For this, the Forest Department is organizing small programs at the 35 selected spots. These events aim to inform people about the initiative and actively involve them in the planting activities.
BETTER RELATIONS
One of the main objectives of this program is to strengthen relations with the people of our neighboring states and to foster greater cordiality with Nepal.
“The goal is to create a sense of camaraderie between the two regions. This initiative not only encourages collaborative environmental efforts but also aims to enhance mutual respect and improve bilateral relations,” Mr Sharma said.
THE 35 DIVISIONS
In this program, special attention will be given to districts adjoining Nepal, including Sonauli in Maharajganj, Lakhimpur Kheri, Shravasti, Bahraich, and Pilibhit. A detailed guideline has been issued for maintenance, covering everything from upkeep to irrigation.
