Rajasthan’s Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Forest and Environment, Sanjay Sharma, on Monday directed forest officials to ensure wide publicity of the revised relocation package implemented by the state government for villages located within tiger reserve areas, so that maximum residents can avail its benefits.
Chairing a review meeting at Aranya Bhawan, the minister assessed ongoing initiatives related to forest and wildlife conservation. He instructed officials to complete budget announcements within stipulated timelines and accelerate the progress of conservation and development works undertaken by the department.
Emphasising the success of plantation drives, Sharma said the survival rate of saplings must be improved by adopting modern techniques and promoting plantation of locally suitable native species based on site-specific conditions. He also directed officers to expedite approvals for pending development projects at both state and central government levels, ensuring that objections, if any, are promptly addressed.
The minister announced that, on the lines of Ranthambore, interlocking pathways will be developed in Sariska as well to facilitate smoother movement for tourists.
Addressing concerns over illegal mining and encroachment, Sharma instructed officials to identify sensitive areas and prepare a comprehensive action plan for effective prevention. He further directed that in cases where forest department personnel lose their lives accidentally or during official duty related to forest and wildlife protection, swift action should be taken to provide compassionate appointments to their dependents.
The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, the Head of Forest Force, and other senior officials. Chief Conservators of Forests posted in various divisions participated through video conferencing.
