The Maharashtra government has sanctioned Rs 90.72 lakh for the maintenance of tree plantations across the state for 2026-27, with a minimum 90 per cent sapling survival rate made mandatory for the release of funds, PTI reported.
The allocation comes as 304 of Maharashtra’s 358 talukas have been declared drought-affected following poor rainfall this year, raising concerns over water availability. According to a Government Resolution (GR) issued by the Revenue and Forest Department on Thursday, the money will support the fourth-year maintenance of plantations under the Panchayat Van, Bel Van and Amrut Van components of the state’s afforestation scheme.
Pune Forest Circle Gets Highest Allocation
The funds will cover plantations spread across 227 hectares in various districts. The Pune forest circle has received the highest allocation of Rs 42.80 lakh, followed by Nagpur with Rs 20.80 lakh and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar with Rs 20.76 lakh.
90% Sapling Survival Mandatory for Fund Release
The GR states that funds will be released only for plantation sites where at least 90 per cent of the saplings have survived. Local self-help groups and biodiversity management committees will be responsible for maintaining and protecting the plantations, according to PTI.
Forest Department Directed to Submit Utilisation Certificate
The Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Budget, Planning and Development), Maharashtra, has been directed to ensure that the prescribed conditions are followed. The official must also submit a utilisation certificate for the released funds within seven days.
Drought Concerns Prompt Water Conservation Work
The funding comes amid concerns over water availability following poor rainfall this year. The state government has declared 304 of Maharashtra’s 358 talukas drought-affected.
Water Conservation Measures Planned in 304 Talukas
On Monday, the government issued an order for soil and water conservation work in the 304 talukas where drought-related triggers were activated during the 2026 Kharif season. The measures include constructing water absorption pits, desilting water bodies and repairing check dams.
Maharashtra Launched Afforestation Scheme in 2023
The state launched the afforestation initiative in 2023 under the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav programme to mark the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence. According to PTI, the scheme aims to expand green cover and strengthen ecological stability in urban and rural areas, as well as at religious sites.
Amrut Van Focuses on Urban Green Spaces
The initiative has three components: Amrut Van, Panchayat Van and Bel Van, focusing on urban centres, villages and prominent pilgrimage sites, respectively.
The Amrut Van component aims to develop dedicated urban forestry gardens in 75 major cities and key urban centres. These gardens will use indigenous tree species and be developed on land belonging to local authorities or the Forest Department, PTI reported.
Panchayat Van to Promote Biodiversity in Villages
Under the Panchayat Van initiative, woodland clusters are to be developed in 25 selected villages in every district. Each cluster will feature five culturally significant and ecologically suitable tree species to promote biodiversity.
Bel Van Plantations Planned at Religious Sites
The Bel Van component focuses on plantations at 75 prominent pilgrimage and religious sites across Maharashtra.
These plantations include sacred and medicinal species such as bael, Sita Ashok, rudraksha, ber and swastik plants. The initiative combines environmental conservation with the state’s religious and cultural traditions, according to PTI.