Union Ayush Minister Appreciates Delhi's Afforestation Drive, Urges Integration of Medicinal Plants in Urban Forest Development

Why in news

The Union Minister of State for Ayush has lauded Delhi's afforestation efforts and suggested incorporating medicinal plants into urban forest development to boost AYUSH and biodiversity.

Exam relevance

GS1, GS2, GS3 · Governance, Environment & Ecology, Society · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, praised Delhi's green cover expansion initiative.
2. The Delhi Government plans to plant over 70 lakh indigenous and climate-resilient trees.
3. The initiative includes developing more than 70 water bodies and notifying nearly 6,000 hectares as forest area.
4. Invasive species like Vilayati Kikar and Babool are proposed to be replaced with indigenous species such as Peepal, Banyan, Neem, Arjun, and Jamun.
5. The Union Minister urged the integration of medicinal plants into urban forest development.

Prelims pointers

• Union Minister of State for Ayush: Shri Prataprao Jadhav
• Delhi Government's afforestation initiative aims to plant over 70 lakh trees.
• Proposed development of over 70 water bodies in Delhi.
• Nearly 6,000 hectares of land to be notified as forest area.
• Indigenous species like Peepal, Banyan, Neem, Arjun, and Jamun are to be promoted.
• Invasive species targeted for removal include Vilayati Kikar and Babool.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of urban afforestation drives in enhancing ecological security and public health. Critically analyze the potential benefits and challenges of integrating medicinal plant cultivation within such initiatives in metropolitan areas like Delhi.

Static linkage

The Delhi Ridge is a significant ecological feature of the National Capital Region, playing a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and environmental balance. Afforestation drives and conservation efforts in such areas are vital for urban sustainability and public health, linking to concepts of environmental governance and urban planning.

Significance

The initiative signifies a proactive approach by the Delhi government towards environmental conservation and improving urban living conditions. The integration of medicinal plants, as suggested by the Union Ayush Minister, could further enhance biodiversity, support traditional medicine systems (AYUSH), and contribute to public health and economic opportunities. Replacing invasive species with indigenous ones is crucial for restoring ecological balance and strengthening the resilience of the urban ecosystem.