Implement ‘Narva Vikas’ in non-forest, forest areas: CM

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Wednesday called for implementing the flagship scheme ‘Narva Vikas’ for ground water conservation on priority in non-forest areas and forest areas.

The construction work will provide employment to forest-dwellers, tribes and villagers living around the forest area, he said.

Baghel was presiding over the second meeting of the state advisory council for Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) here, an official communication said.

Forest and Climate Change Minister Mohammad Akbar, Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain and senior officials were present.

The Chief Minister said the sanctioned works should be prioritized, expedited and completed. The emphasis should be on protection and conservation of forest and its wildlife.

The plantation should be such that it can generate forest minor produce which in turn provides income to the tribes and forest dwellers.

He laid stress on time-bound distribution of compensation in case of loss of life, crop and property due to wild elephants.

He also gave consent to use Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology to prepare projects for remote forestry. He said the proposal should be sent to the Central government.