Gandhinagar: Over the past three years, Gujarat has undertaken extensive plantation and reforestation efforts to expand green cover, keeping environmental protection a top priority. The state government today announced that the Forest Department has undertaken plantation activities across 1,04,270 hectares of forest land in the last three years. Gujarat is also among the leading states in implementing the Central Government’s MISHTI scheme.

Under MISHTI, mangrove plantation across 34,242 hectares in Gujarat

Under the MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes) scheme, Gujarat has planted mangroves across 34,242 hectares, strengthening the mangrove belt along its coastline. Launched by the Central Government on 5 June 2023, the scheme focuses on restoring and protecting mangrove ecosystems in coastal states. Its key objectives include promoting mangrove plantation, scientific mapping of mangrove areas, nursery development, hydrology and geographical assessment, public awareness, training, research and the promotion of eco-tourism.

Distribution of 158 lakh bamboo saplings to local tribal communities in the last three years

An official statement further said that in an effort to restore traditional fodder sources and strengthen forest-based livelihoods, the state government has cultivated 5,000 hectares of grass in the Banni area of Kutch over the last three years. In addition to departmental grass collection, the government distributed an estimated 52.52 lakh kg of grass free of cost to local communities. During the same period, it distributed 158 lakh bamboo saplings to tribal communities across Gujarat.

Samajik Vanikaran Yojana: Departmental plantation completed on 10,213 hectares in the last three years

The Forest Department increased forest cover by planting trees across 1,04,270 hectares of forest land over the last three years. To expand tree cover outside forest areas, the department carried out plantation on 10,213 hectares under the Samajik Vanikaran Yojana during the same period. Additionally, with support from various Forest Department assistance schemes, farmers across Gujarat planted trees on 1,09,425.60 hectares in the last three years, the press note stated.

Gujarat is committed to building a green future for generations to come

Green cover plays a key role in maintaining climate stability, improving soil productivity, supporting biodiversity and strengthening the rural economy. Mangroves, in particular, protect marine life, stabilise coastlines and reduce the impact of natural disasters such as cyclones. To support these efforts, the state government has allocated ₹3,140 crore to the Forest and Environment Department in the 2025–26 budget. DeshGujarat