Haryana Government Directs Immediate Clearance of Pending Payments for Van Mitras by September 15

In a decisive move to support grassroots environmental workers, Haryana Forest and Environment Minister Rao Narbir Singh has issued strict administrative directives ensuring that all pending maintenance dues for Van Mitras (Forest Friends) for the financial years 2025-26 and 2026-27 are cleared by September 15, 2026. Reviewing departmental performance and outstanding cases in Chandigarh, the minister made it clear that any unnecessary delays, negligence, or administrative arbitrariness in releasing workers' payments will invite strict action. Recognizing Van Mitras as the vital bridge between the forestry department and local communities, the state is taking firm steps to protect their financial interests while supercharging rural afforestation campaigns.Expanding Afforestation: Van Mitras Granted Permission for Plantations on Forest and Private LandsTo significantly expand the state's green cover and ensure the long-term survival of saplings, the forest department has broadened operational guidelines for Van Mitras. During the high-level review meeting, Minister Rao Narbir Singh instructed officials to permit Forest Friends to carry out tree planting drives across designated forest department lands in addition to private properties. This dual approach not only scales up afforestation efforts but also guarantees dedicated, continuous local care for the planted saplings over a sustained multi-year period, transforming community participation into a powerful ecological movement.Impressive Ground Progress: Over 4 Lakh Saplings Planted and Portal Registration Extended to September 30Reviewing current operational milestones for the 2026-27 financial year, officials reported that 635 active Van Mitras have successfully planted approximately four lakh saplings across the state. Out of this total, 2,14,992 saplings have already undergone rigorous field verification and been successfully uploaded to the official departmental portal. To expand grassroots participation further, the minister ordered that the registration portal for new Van Mitras remain open until September 30, 2026, setting a target to enroll substantially more volunteers, with a special emphasis on mobilizing women through local self-help groups (SHGs).Securing Haryana's Ancient Trees: 5,300 Heritage Trees Identified Under Prana Vayu Devta Pension SchemeEmphasizing holistic environmental conservation, the review meeting highlighted the ongoing success of Haryana's unique ecological welfare initiatives. The forest department reported that approximately 5,300 ancient trees aged 75 years and above have been meticulously identified across the state under the prestigious Prana Vayu Devta Pension Scheme. Under this visionary program, local caretakers and guardians who protect these invaluable heritage trees receive an annual pension of one thousand rupees. Minister Rao Narbir Singh directed forestry officials to maximize plantations on department lands and ensure robust care and maintenance for all new saplings for at least four to five years to secure Haryana's environmental future.