Jaipur, May 29 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Friday inaugurated the ‘Neendad-Bainad Biodiversity Project Eco-Trail’ in the Neendad forest area and participated in the state’s ongoing water conservation campaign by performing shramdaan (voluntary labour) at an anicut under the ‘Vande Ganga Water Conservation Public Campaign’.

The Chief Minister said that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the vision of water self-reliance in Rajasthan is becoming a reality and called upon citizens to actively contribute to the conservation and augmentation of water resources.

During the event, the Chief Minister planted a white sandalwood sapling, installed water pots for birds, and distributed Tulsi saplings to women, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation and biodiversity protection.

He also performed worship of a Peepal tree amid Vedic chanting and offered prayers at a Shiva temple for the prosperity of the state.

Chief Minister Sharma said the Neendad forest region has immense ecological and tourism potential and added that the state government plans to develop it through large-scale afforestation and eco-tourism initiatives.

He further stated that, under the campaign, efforts are underway to construct anicuts and water-harvesting structures at suitable locations to ensure effective rainwater conservation.

Referring to national initiatives, the Chief Minister said the government is also promoting plantation drives inspired by the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, with a target of planting 100 million saplings during the current year.

He added that programmes such as ‘Hariyalo Rajasthan’ and ‘Vande Ganga Jal Sanrakshan’ will strengthen community participation in environmental and water conservation efforts.

The Chief Minister also directed officials to develop eco-friendly public amenities in the Neendad forest area, including a walking track for visitors.

Minister of State for Forests and Environment (Independent Charge) Sanjay Sharma, local public representatives, senior officials, and a large number of citizens were present on the occasion.

–IANS

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