In an innovative scheme launched by the Haryana government, trees aged 75 years or older located on the property of state’s residents will now get pension.
Initially, a pension of Rs 2,750 per annum is being offered for “maintenance and care” of 3,810 trees under the Pran Vayu Devta Pension Scheme, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said, adding the allowance will see annual increments, akin to old-age pension.
“Haryana is the first state to implement such a pioneering scheme, aimed at conserving and protecting aging trees,” Khattar said.
The CM has asked the state residents, who have trees aged 75 years or older in their homes’ courtyards, to apply for pension by visiting their respective district forest department offices.
“Each application will be meticulously reviewed by a committee, ensuring that all criteria are met before the beneficiary receives their pension,” he said, adding the pension will be deposited into the account of the guardian.
District-level conservation committees have already identified 3,810 trees that qualify for the pension.
Highlighting his government’s “proactive stance on environmentally-friendly initiatives”, Khattar stressed the critical role of trees in oxygen production, particularly older trees that release substantial amounts of this life-sustaining element.
He urged the people of Haryana to actively engage in tree plantation efforts and join hands in safeguarding the environment.
The selected Pran Vayu Devata trees represent approximately 40 diverse species, including Peepal, Banyan, Neem, Mango, Jaal, Gular, Krishna Kadamba, and Pilkhan, among others, each with substantial ecological significance.
These trees are on various types of land, from private and panchayat holdings to institutional and government properties. Trees located in forested areas are not covered by this scheme.
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