CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Government has decided to get a scientific & comprehensive study done by specialized body on the short a term and long term impact of global warming on flora and fauna of the state.

A decision to this effect was taken in a meeting of the Forest and wildlife officers of the State presided over by  Tikshan Sud, Forest and Wild Life Preservation Minister here Tuesday.  Punjab would be the first state to get this study done on the impending danger of global warming, said minister.

While reviewing the progress of works, the Minister expressed serious concern about the environmental changes and global warming. He specifically pointed out that research should be conducted to study the impact of global warming on flora of the State. The minister also asked the officers to include in their study as to what types of trees should be planted which could help in improving the environment.

 The Minister further directed that new forest policy for the State should be immediately drafted keeping in view the social economic and environmental requirements of the State. He also informed that the new felling policy for cutting of trees in shiwaliks would also be finalized soon so that the people would not   face any problem while getting the permits under the management plans.

 Expressing his disagreement with the steps taken by the previous government in permitting people to kill wild animals destroying the crop, the Minister said that the decision would be reviewed. He said that Govt. is considering to provide compensation to the farmers whose crops get destroyed by wild animals. He also informed that damage to crops by wild animals was also being considered for inclusion in the definition of natural calamity so that the farmers could get adequate compensation.

Earlier, the Divisional Forest Officers in the State informed the Minister about the progress of works being done in their divisions. The Minister was also apprised about the problems being faced by the department in terms of shortage of staff and lack of funds.

The Minister again advised the officers to be environment and people friendly. He said that the real achievement was judged when one achieve with meager resources. He appreciated that NGOs were being involved by the field officers for increasing the tree cover in the state. He further called upon the field officers to interact with people, religious heads industrialists and other prominent people and suggest them that they should include tree planting in their programmes so that more and more people could be involved in the drive for GREENING PUNJAB. He however cautioned the field officers that they should tour extensively in their areas and remain vigilant to ensure that no forest or wildlife offence take place in the State.

Speaking of the occasion  R.N.Gupta, Financial Commissioner, Forests urged to provide adequate funds and manpower to the department. So that the forests which are very vital for the livelihood could be developed and protected in a proper manner.

B.C.Bala Principal Chief Conservator of Forests informed the Minister that at present more than 300 posts of Forest Guards are lying vacant and almost all the divisions in the State are having 55% strength in position.  B.C. Bala, informed the Minister that the department has purchased a plot of 2 acres in Mohali  for the construction of forest office complex.