Gandhinagar: The Gujarat government has unveiled an ambitious plan to significantly expand the state’s green cover through the development of high-tech nurseries, large-scale mangrove expansion, and grassland restoration initiatives. The announcement was made during the conclusion of a two-day Forest Department “Chintan Shivir” held in Gandhinagar.
High-Tech Nurseries Planned Across Districts
As part of the green expansion strategy, the state plans to establish 8–10 high-tech nurseries in various districts. These nurseries will focus on producing quality saplings for agriculture, horticulture, and forestry needs.
Officials said the initiative aims to improve plantation success rates and ensure a steady supply of healthy plants for large-scale afforestation efforts across Gujarat.
Focus on Mangroves and Grassland Restoration
The state has also proposed expanding mangrove forests by 1 lakh hectares and restoring another 1 lakh hectares of grasslands. These efforts are aimed at improving coastal resilience, biodiversity, and ecological balance.
Authorities highlighted that strengthening mangrove cover will play a key role in protecting coastal regions and mitigating the impact of climate change.
CM Emphasises Green Governance and Technology
The closing session was addressed by the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel, who stressed the importance of continuous self-evaluation in governance.
He said that good governance requires constant introspection and highlighted the role of technology in improving public services and environmental management. He also referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Mission LiFE” and “back to nature” approach, urging eco-friendly living practices.
Green Cover Expansion for Climate Protection
The Chief Minister noted that increasing green cover is essential to reduce the impact of global warming and safeguard future generations. He emphasized that environmental conservation must be integrated into development planning.
He also mentioned the success of initiatives like “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” under which tree plantation outside forest areas has increased by 47% over the past 12 years.
Forest Area in Gujarat to Rise to 13%
Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Das stated that development and environmental protection are complementary goals. He added that Gujarat currently has around 11% forest cover, which the state aims to increase to 13% using modern forest management techniques.
Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Development Push
Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said the state will prioritize a strong nursery ecosystem to improve plantation success rates. He added that eco-tourism will be expanded through public-private partnerships to generate employment and promote sustainable development.
He also noted that mangrove growth has increased despite industrial expansion and Gujarat’s long coastline.
Long-Term Forest Vision and Policy Implementation
Senior officials outlined several key recommendations from the Chintan Shivir, including:
- Development of high-tech nurseries across districts
- Expansion of mangroves and grasslands
- Strengthening of “Van Kavach” model in thousands of gram panchayats
- Development of cultural forests in remaining districts
- Implementation of eco-tourism policies under PPP models
Officials said these measures aim to support India’s long-term goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Technology-Driven Environmental Management
Authorities also stressed the importance of using technology for plantation monitoring, land restoration, and forest management. The goal is to ensure data-driven, result-oriented implementation of environmental policies.
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