Hasiru Patha launched in Kalaburagi
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Pic: Hasiru Patha launched in Kalaburagi by RS opposition leader
Mallikarjun Kharge
. Forest minister Eshwar Khandre and others were present
Kalaburagi: Mallikarjun Kharge, the leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha, emphasised the importance of developing forest cover in the state and protecting the environment.
He was speaking after inaugurating the Vanamahotsava 2025 Hasiru Patha and Kalaburagi Hasiru Hejje programme at the Polytechnic College campus of Hyderabad Karnataka Institute of Education, Kalaburagi on Saturday, where he participated in a ceremonial sapling-watering event.
The nation requires more forest coverage. Tree plantation along roads must be accompanied by their protection. As highlighted by Rajya Sabha opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge, public participation alongside govt efforts is crucial.
During his ministerial tenure, Kharge observed that despite efforts to expand forest coverage, locals would fell roadside trees for agricultural tools. He clarified that while using fallen or unsuitable trees is acceptable, felling healthy trees poses significant risks.
"The country currently maintains 25.1% forest coverage, with the state showing only 21%, falling short of other regions by 11%. To ensure adequate oxygen supply and water availability, forest coverage should reach 33%.
Kharge advocated for tree plantation across educational institutions, roadsides, and available lands," Kharge said.
"Despite forest development being a key component of the 20-point programme, some have dismissed its importance. Currently, 20 lakh hectares of forest has been lost, including coastal regions. While the periphery shows tree coverage, internal areas reveal cleared land for development, which is concerning.
Environmental protection requires collective responsibility and awareness. Modi govt's recent forest conservation amendment act lacks proper implementation.
Continued environmental degradation threatens access to clean air, sunlight, and food security," he commented.
Kharge recommended utilising river water to develop forests near dam backwaters. He encouraged public participation in expanding forest coverage through home gardening. The state govt's target of planting 3 crore saplings this year could prove highly beneficial even if 2.5 crore plants survive, he added.
MP Radhakrishna Doddamani, ministers Eshwar Khandre and Priyank Kharge, MLAs BR Patil, MY Patil, Allamaprabhu Patil, MLC Thippannappa Kamakanuru, Shasheel Namosi, and Jagdev Guttedar were present.
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