Sandalwood forests will soon come up in Aravalli Range in Rajasthan: CM

Rajasthan, the state that has, for ages, been known worldover for its arid climate vegetation such as Kair – Sangri (Capparis), Miswak (Salvadora persica), Khejri (Prosopis cineraria) and Babool (Acacia) will soon grow Sandalwood forests.

This plan emerged at a review meeting of the Forests and Environment Department that held at the chief minister’s residence here Sunday afternoon under chairmanship of Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. Environment and Forest Minister Sanjay Sharma was also present on the occasion.

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The Chief Minister has informed that the state government has decided to develop Sandalwood forests in tribal-dominated regions of the Udaipur, Banswara and Sirohi districts of the state. “During the annual tree-plantation campaign in the monsoon season this year, we have decided to launch the ‘Sandalwood Mission’ along foothills and pass along the Aravalli Range.”

CM Sharma has directed officials to resort to selection of good variety and quality saplings and start preparations for the plantation drive.

“The government has set a target of planting at least 10 crore saplings/trees during the campaign this year too. We are aspiring for plantation and protection of 50 crore saplings during our 5-year term in the office,” Sharma said.

Presently, some Sandalwood trees are found in the historic Haldighati and the Khamnor regions of Rajsamand in neighbourhood of Udaipur. Some individuals have also been making efforts and research at places like Barmer and Sriganganagar districts for growing Sandalwood trees.