Rs. 19,000-crore afforestation plan launched

Rs. 19,000-crore afforestation plan launched

Part of: Prelims and GS-III Environment 

Context:  The Centre envisages a Rs. 19,000–crore project to rejuvenate 13 major rivers by planting trees.

Key takeaways 

• The rivers are the Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, Sutlej, Yamuna, Brahmaputra, Luni, Narmada, Godavari, Mahanadi, Krishna and Cauvery funded by the National Afforestation & Eco-development Board.
• Trees shall be planted on both sides of these rivers and their tributaries.

Significance of the project

• increase cumulative forest cover in the vicinity of these 13 rivers.
• help achieve national goals related to climate change and sustainable development.
• help recharge groundwater
• reduce sedimentation
• generate Rs. 449.01 crore from non-timber and other forest produce 
• provide employment
• reduce erosion

News Source: TH