?New policy to ease pressure on forests?

THE NEW forest policy of MP aims at reducing pressure on forests, augmenting security and promoting alternative sources of energy.

THE NEW forest policy of MP aims at reducing pressure on forests, augmenting security and promoting alternative sources of energy.

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According to an official release today, several provisions have been made in the Forest Policy 2005 for conservation and development of forests in the State. A major clause in the policy is directed towards the benefit of farmers owning private land in forests.

To promote afforestation and plantation by farmers on their private land, the process of transportation of trees is being simplified so that farmers are able to plant and cut trees just like other agricultural products, the release informed.

The policy also sets to address the long-term forestry needs and priorities of the State. It consists of elaborate provisions for the betterment of tribals and forests in the State.

The release said the policy has a provision of setting up Green Madhya Pradesh Fund and the MP Forest Finance Corporation to augment forests and promote related activities in the State.

The Forest Finance Corporation would provide loans at cheap rates for intensive forestry programmes. Similarly, the Green MP Fund would provide financial assistance to individuals and organisations working for the augmentation of forests in the state.