Karnataka's Green Legacy: Strict Amendments Proposed to Preserve Nature

Karnataka's Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has mandated tougher amendments to the Preservation of Trees Act, suggesting a tenfold rise in fines for illicit tree cutting. He emphasized the Supreme Court's views on deforestation's severity and urged the need for stronger penalties amid global ecological challenges.

In a decisive move to safeguard Karnataka's green cover, Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has ordered enhancements to the Preservation of Trees Act. The proposed amendments include a significant increase in fines for illegal tree-felling, reflecting a strict stance on environmental violations.

Khandre highlighted observations by the Supreme Court equating rampant deforestation to grievous offenses against humanity. He underscored the importance of heightened penalties, with fines proposed to increase to Rs 1 lakh per tree, in ensuring the preservation of the state's ecological heritage.

This initiative, according to Khandre, is a crucial step in addressing global environmental concerns like climate change and global warming. Urging immediate action to protect centuries-old trees, he invoked the Sanskrit principle 'Vriksho Rakshati Rakshitah', stressing the responsibility to safeguard nature for future generations.

(With inputs from agencies.)