Mumbai, The Maharashtra government has sanctioned ₹ 90.72 lakh for the upkeep of tree plantations across the state amid drought affecting 304 of its 358 talukas, with at least 90 per cent sapling survival made a prerequisite for the release of funds.
The allocation comes amid concerns over water availability following poor rainfall this year. The Maharashtra government has declared 304 of the state’s 358 talukas drought-affected, prompting measures to address water scarcity and support affected areas.
The measures included constructing water absorption pits, desilting water bodies and repairing check dams. The scheme aims to expand green cover and strengthen ecological stability across urban and rural areas as well as religious sites in the state. The initiative comprises three components Amrit Van, Panchayatan Van and Bel Van targeting urban centres, villages and prominent pilgrimage sites, respectively.
The money has been allocated for the fourth-year maintenance of ‘Panchayat Van’, ‘Bel Van’ and ‘Amrut Van’ plantations under a state scheme for 2026-27, according to a Government Resolution issued by the Revenue and Forest Department on Thursday. The state government on Monday issued an order for soil and water conservation works in 304 talukas where drought-related triggers had been activated during the 2026 Kharif season. In 2023, the state launched an afforestation initiative under the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ to mark the 75th anniversary of Independence. The Amrit Van component aims to establish dedicated urban forestry gardens in 75 major cities and key urban centres by developing local government or forest department land with indigenous tree species. The Panchayatan Van initiative seeks to develop woodland clusters in 25 selected villages in every district, featuring five culturally significant and ecologically suitable tree species to promote biodiversity.
