In a decisive move to protect Karnataka’s dwindling green cover, Environment and Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has officially ordered the immediate reclamation of 2,000 acres of forest land under illegal occupation in Mandya district. The directive, issued during a high-level review meeting, marks a significant escalation in the state’s efforts to combat environmental degradation and land grabbing.
Immediate Eviction for Recent Encroachments
The Minister’s order specifically targets encroachments that have occurred after 2015. Minister Khandre emphasized that any illegal occupation of forest territory following the 2015 cutoff must be cleared without delay. Current estimates suggest that approximately 2,000 acres within the Mandya region have been subsumed by private interests, threatening local ecosystems and water catchments. The Forest Department has been instructed to mobilize teams to physically reclaim these lands and restore them to their natural state.
Modernizing Forest Management
Beyond the eviction drive, the Minister laid out a comprehensive plan for modernization and transparency within the department. A key directive includes the initiation of a systematic tree census across the district. This data-driven approach aims to create a clear inventory of the region’s botanical wealth and track changes in canopy density over time.
Khandre also addressed the logistical aspects of reforestation. He urged officials to expedite the distribution of saplings to the public and local organizations, ensuring that the planting season is utilized effectively to boost Mandya’s green footprint. The Minister noted that public participation is essential for the long-term success of conservation efforts.
Stricter Oversight and Accountability
The review meeting also touched upon the necessity of stringent monitoring to prevent future land grabs. Officials were warned that negligence in protecting forest boundaries would not be tolerated. By setting the 2015 threshold, the government aims to balance the complexities of long-standing historical claims with the urgent need to halt modern-day environmental exploitation.
The Forest Department is expected to provide regular progress reports on the eviction status and the success of the sapling distribution program. These measures represent a broader statewide push to secure forest wealth for future generations while addressing the growing pressures of urbanization and agricultural expansion.
