Ranchi: Jharkhand’s 77th Forest Festival 2026 focused on long-term forest conservation, with Chief Minister Hemant Soren stressing that plantation efforts must go beyond planting saplings to ensuring their survival and healthy growth. The festival was organised under the chairmanship of Jharkhand Legislative Assembly Speaker Rabindranath Mahto.
Focus on Sapling Care and Forest Conservation
Soren emphasised sustained care of newly planted trees, including proper nutrition and regular maintenance.
Key areas highlighted at the festival included:
- Regular care and maintenance of planted saplings.
- Use of manure and proper plant nutrition.
- Protection of biodiversity and forest ecosystems.
- Greater participation of local communities in conservation efforts.
The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of protecting forests, water and land while pursuing development.
Forest Growth Reported Across 5,500 Hectares
The festival also highlighted forest growth recorded in Jharkhand. According to satellite-based studies from the previous year, forest growth was recorded across approximately 5,500 hectares in the state.
The figure was cited in the context of the state’s ongoing forest conservation efforts.
Indigenous Trees and Biodiversity
The conservation approach also places emphasis on planting tree species that support local ecosystems. Recent directions from the Chief Minister have stressed indigenous, fruit-bearing, medicinal and shade-giving species, alongside efforts to monitor the survival of saplings planted during afforestation campaigns.
Community Participation in Conservation
The festival highlighted the role of citizens and local communities in protecting forests and biodiversity. The state’s Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department also identifies forest and biodiversity conservation as closely linked to Jharkhand’s social and cultural traditions.
The 77th Forest Festival thus placed emphasis not only on increasing green cover but also on sapling survival, biodiversity protection and sustained community participation in forest conservation.
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