Guajrat Fiance Minister Shri Vajubhai Vala today in his Budget speech 2010-11 announced development of Banni grass land in Kutch with involvement of Rs 8 crore. Vala said, the Banni grass land area is so rich that it is capable to provide fodder not only to cattle in Gujarat but also to other states.

Vala announced that the Gujarat Environment Management Institute would be fully functional this year for speedy implementation of development works in the state.

While speaking on Rs 412 crore Forest and Environment department budget in his speech, Vala said the state would carry out plantation of mangrove on 12000 hector land this year. ” This would be an achievement internationally,” he added.

He said the protection of Asiatic lion population in Gujarat is state’s top priority and therefore Rs 8.93 crore are allocated to strengthen monitoring and communication system inside and on the periphery of Gir sanctuary.

Vala said Rs 100 crore would be allocated for Gujarat government’s newly formed Climate Change department this financial year. This includes formation of Climate Change Trust Fund which would be initiated with Rs 10 crore allocation by the state.