Deesa: The Gujarat State Forest Department and the Social Forestry Department will implement an important project aimed at environmental protection and promoting modern agricultural technology in Banaskantha district. A modern hi-tech nursery will be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 3.5 crore on about 13 acres of land in Dawas village of Deesa taluka.

Officials said the nursery is expected to become an inspiring model for the entire state of Gujarat.

Over 10 lakh seedlings to be produced annually

The main objective of the project is to produce high-quality, disease-free and robust plants using modern technology, a controlled environment and scientific methods, thereby strengthening afforestation and environmental conservation efforts.

A key feature of the hi-tech nursery will be its capacity to produce more than 10 lakh seedlings every year. To ensure quality plant development, modern facilities such as mist chambers, germination chambers, polyhouses and net houses will be installed. These facilities will enable the safe and rapid growth of plants even in adverse climatic conditions.

Focus on conservation and awareness

The nursery will also focus on the conservation and propagation of plant species in Gujarat that are on the verge of extinction. For this purpose, a modern soil-less media technique will be used to grow plants without soil, ensuring faster growth, healthier plants and improved quality.

Under the project, a well-equipped seed bank and seed processing unit will also be established to scientifically store rare and valuable seeds for long-term conservation.

In addition, a Nursery Information Centre will be set up to spread environmental awareness. Students, farmers and environmentalists visiting the centre will be provided guidance on vegetation, afforestation and natural resource conservation.

Vermicomposting unit to produce organic fertiliser

A vermicomposting unit will also be installed in the nursery to produce organic fertiliser, which will support the healthy growth of plants. The project will also adopt methods to develop high-height tree saplings, enabling more effective large-scale tree plantation and afforestation programmes.

Officials said the hi-tech nursery project will play an important role in increasing Gujarat’s green cover, maintaining ecological balance and conserving rare plant species. It is also expected to serve as a model for other districts in the field of environmental conservation, modern agricultural practices and scientific forestry. DeshGujarat