Maharashtra set to get Rs 2,000 cr for forest conservation

Mumbai: Maharashtra government is set to receive Rs 2,000 crore from the Centre in next three years under Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority and is keen on setting up an ‘eco-battalion’ to increase green cover, Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar said.

To increase the green cover in the state, the Forest department is keen on reviving eco-battalion concept for large scale tree plantation, Mungantiwar told PTI.

“Retired Army personnel will be roped-in under the eco-battalion (concept) and will be asked to plant, protect and grow the plants. The battalion will utilise the funds meant for afforestation across the state,” he said.