Maharashtra Forest Minister, Ganesh Naik, highlighted the issue of increasing forest fires in the Konkan region, attributing them to a lack of awareness and misconceptions among local farmers. Responding to MLA Prashant Thakur, Minister Naik explained that burning dry leaves and biomass damages the soil instead of enriching it. To combat this, the forest department is launching a campaign to dispel these myths.
To tackle forest fires, a comprehensive awareness drive involving various departments and local representatives will be initiated. Recent data revealed significant damage from fires in Thane, Kolhapur, and Mumbai West Wildlife Division. Minister Naik identified causes such as careless disposal of cigarette stumps and deliberate fires for illegal activities. The government plans to provide specialized equipment like blowers for firefighting.
Proposed amendments to the Forest Act of 1962 aim to address fire-related offenses more strictly. Private landowners may be held accountable for fires on their property. A joint meeting of forest and agriculture officials will be held to devise effective strategies. Meanwhile, in the Legislative Assembly, Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharane addressed fraudulent claims in Jalgaon district related to fake banana cultivation for crop insurance.
A thorough investigation using remote sensing technology exposed discrepancies in crop insurance claims. Minister Bharane stated that over 27,000 applicants falsely sought insurance for non-existent banana cultivation. Legal action is being pursued against those involved, with cases registered against operators of Common Service Centres. The Economic Offences Wing is investigating the matter, aiming to take necessary legal steps against the offenders upon completion of the probe.
