Government of Chhattisgarh will extend all cooperation for entrepreneurs to establish forest-based industries in the forested regions of state, said Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Sunday.
He was interacting with state-based industrialists and office bearers of different industrial organisations at his residence-cum-office on establishment of industrial units linked to forest produce, states an official statement.
Chief Minister said Chhattisgarh has 44 percent forest cover. It has abundant medicinal plants and minor forest produce which can open many avenues. So, its sustainable exploitation through industries can link the locals with employment. This will also pave path for the state’s economic development.
He said the forest dwellers are being handed over community forest rights title. Instead of traditional policy of commercial timber plantation, the fruit-bearing trees plantation is being promoted. In current fiscal year, 86 lakh medicinal plants and fruit bearing tree saplings have been planted. In near future, it would be beneficial for forest residents, as they will provided them income.
Chief Minister further said that in forested regions, based on proposal of industrialists, plantation of medicinal plants and fruit-bearing trees would be promoted. It would help to ensure raw materials for the industry. Baghel said the land for establishing industry will not be a constraint and the water will be also available.
Under Suraji Gaon Yojana, the rivers and rivulets surface water conservation projects have been taken up across the state. Presently, 1300 works are in progress.
Industrialists welcomed the proposal for establishment of forest based industries. They also thanked the Chief Minister for the new Industrial Policy 2019-2024 along with unlocking after the Covid-19 pandemic hit the state. They raised several issues related to different sectors and also gave their proposals.