Ranchi, July 22 (APAC Media): Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has directed the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department to prepare a comprehensive digital database of all forest areas in the state within one month.
The move is aimed at strengthening scientific forest management, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
The directions were issued during a departmental review meeting at the Jharkhand Secretariat.
One Month Deadline for Digital Forest Records
The Chief Minister asked officials to create a technical and digital record of every forest area since the formation of Jharkhand.
The database will include forest boundaries, current status, structural details and digital mapping layers.
He said the system should enable officials to access complete information on any forest area with a single click, improving monitoring and planning.
Focus on Scientific Forest Management
Soren said Jharkhand’s forest landscape has changed significantly over the years due to eco-tourism projects, mining activities, infrastructure development and changes in protected areas.
He stressed the need for updated digital documentation to support scientific conservation and informed policy decisions.
Eco Tourism, Plantation Drive Get Major Push
The Chief Minister directed the Forest and Tourism departments to jointly prepare a roadmap for expanding eco-tourism across the state.
He also called for a large-scale plantation campaign and asked officials to prioritise indigenous and economically useful species such as mahua, jamun, palash, kusum, arjun, karanj and ber.
According to the government, the initiative will strengthen biodiversity while creating livelihood opportunities for rural and forest-dependent communities.
Boost to Bamboo and Cashew Cultivation
Soren emphasised expanding bamboo and cashew plantations to generate employment and strengthen the rural economy.
He said bamboo-based industries and handicrafts could create self-employment opportunities while supporting traditional artisans across the state.
Speed Up Forest Rights, Elephant Compensation
The Chief Minister directed officials to expedite the disposal of pending forest rights claims and ensure eligible beneficiaries receive certificates without delay.
He also asked the department to provide timely compensation to families affected by elephant attacks, including crop losses, damaged houses and loss of life.
Urban Green Cover and Public Participation
Soren reviewed the state’s ‘Plant a Tree, Get Five Units Free Electricity’ scheme and instructed officials to promote it widely.
He also called for increased plantation in urban areas to improve air quality, reduce pollution and enhance green cover.
Action Against Environmental Violations
The Chief Minister directed strict action against environmental violations and reviewed measures to strengthen pollution monitoring.
He also asked officials to improve the functioning of the Jan Vishwas App for faster disposal of pollution-related complaints.
Green Growth at the Core
Soren said Jharkhand’s development model will focus on balancing forest conservation, tourism, employment generation and sustainable economic growth.
He stressed that all schemes should be implemented transparently and with active participation of local communities to maximise long-term environmental and economic benefits.
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