Rajasthan CM launches Neendad-Bainad Eco-Trail, stresses water conservation
Jaipur, May 29
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Friday inaugurated the 'Neendad-Bainad Biodiversity Project Eco-Trail' in the Neendad forest area and participated in the state's ongoing water conservation campaign by performing shramdaan at an anicut under the 'Vande Ganga Water Conservation Public Campaign'.
The Chief Minister said that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the vision of water self-reliance in Rajasthan is becoming a reality and called upon citizens to actively contribute to the conservation and augmentation of water resources.
During the event, the Chief Minister planted a white sandalwood sapling, installed water pots for birds, and distributed Tulsi saplings to women, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation and biodiversity protection.
He also performed worship of a Peepal tree amid Vedic chanting and offered prayers at a Shiva temple for the prosperity of the state.
Chief Minister Sharma said the Neendad forest region has immense ecological and tourism potential and added that the state government plans to develop it through large-scale afforestation and eco-tourism initiatives.
He further stated that, under the campaign, efforts are underway to construct anicuts and water-harvesting structures at suitable locations to ensure effective rainwater conservation.
Referring to national initiatives, the Chief Minister said the government is also promoting plantation drives inspired by the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, with a target of planting 100 million saplings during the current year.
He added that programmes such as 'Hariyalo Rajasthan' and 'Vande Ganga Jal Sanrakshan' will strengthen community participation in environmental and water conservation efforts.
The Chief Minister also directed officials to develop eco-friendly public amenities in the Neendad forest area, including a walking track for visitors.
Minister of State for Forests and Environment (Independent Charge) Sanjay Sharma, local public representatives, senior officials, and a large number of citizens were present on the occasion.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally, some real work on water conservation in Rajasthan! We've been suffering water shortages for decades. Planting 100 million saplings sounds ambitious but let's see how many survive. And distributing Tulsi saplings to women is a lovely touch - connects to our traditions. 👏
I appreciate the Vande Ganga campaign but wish they'd also focus on urban water recycling and fixing the leaky pipelines in cities. Eco-tourism in Neendad is good for jobs though. Hope the locals benefit directly, not just big hotel chains. 🤔
This is what we need - combining spirituality with environmentalism. Peepal tree worship and Shiva temple prayers show our culture values nature. But I hope the government also addresses the groundwater crisis in villages. Can't just rely on anicuts alone.
Interesting to see a state government combining biodiversity with water conservation. The white sandalwood planting is symbolic but meaningful. Would love to see some data on how many anicuts have been built so far and their impact. Hope this isn't just a photo-op.
Growing up in Rajasthan, I've seen how every drop counts. This eco-trail and water conservation push is exactly what we need. But the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign - are they ensuring native species are planted? And proper maintenance? Saplings won't survive without care. 🌿
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