The Mukhyamantri Jan Van Yojana (MJVS) is a visionary scheme launched by the Government of Jharkhand under the Department of Forest, Environment, and Climate Change. It aims to promote afforestation on private lands, reduce pressure on existing forests, and provide financial benefits to farmers for their active participation in tree plantation. This scheme is part of the stateโs long-term goal of improving environmental sustainability while boosting farmersโ income and livelihood security.
๐ฟ Why This Scheme is Important
In recent years, Jharkhand has seen increasing deforestation, environmental degradation, and a rise in climate-related challenges like irregular monsoons and groundwater depletion. The Mukhyamantri Jan Van Yojana addresses multiple challenges:
- ๐ณ Enhancing forest cover to mitigate climate change.
- ๐ช Empowering farmers with an additional source of income.
- ๐ Conserving biodiversity and protecting natural ecosystems.
- โ ๏ธ Improving microclimate and soil fertility through green cover.
๐ฐ Objectives of the Scheme
- Increase the green cover in Jharkhand.
- Encourage local communities to engage in environmental conservation.
- Reduce the stress on natural forests.
- Create an additional and long-term revenue stream for rural landowners.
- Aid in water retention and improve groundwater levels through tree roots.
๐ผ Financial Assistance Under the Scheme
Under Mukhyamantri Jan Van Yojana, the Jharkhand government will provide 75% of the cost incurred by farmers on planting and maintaining trees for three years. The incentives are divided based on whether the saplings are provided by the farmer or the government.
If the farmer arranges saplings:
- Timber species: โน79.20 per plant (total over 3 years).
- Fruit species: โน209.63 per plant (total over 3 years).
If the forest department arranges saplings:
- Timber species: โน64.20 per plant (total over 3 years).
- Fruit species: โน164.63 per plant (total over 3 years).
This support is provided in annual installments, linked with monitoring of the plantation and survival rate of the plants.
๐ Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a resident of Jharkhand.
- Must have a minimum of 0.5 acres and maximum of 50 acres of land.
- Ownership proof of land is mandatory.
- Joint and individual landowners are eligible.
๐ Documents Required
- Aadhaar card
- PAN card
- Passport-size photograph
- Land ownership records
- Bank account details with cancelled cheque
๐ How to Apply
Offline Process:
- Visit the nearest Forest Division Office.
- Collect the application form.
- Fill the form with correct details.
- Attach self-attested documents.
- Submit the form and receive an acknowledgment receipt.
Online Process:
- Visit janvan.jharkhand.gov.in
- Download and fill the form.
- Upload scanned documents.
- Submit and save your application reference number.
๐ณ Recommended Trees
Fruit Trees:
- Mango
- Guava
- Papaya
- Litchi
- Lemon
- Jackfruit
- Ber
Timber Trees:
- Teak
- Mahogany
- Other approved species by the forest department
๐ Expected Impact
- Over 10,000 farmers already enrolled.
- Helps achieve climate goals and reduce Jharkhandโs carbon footprint.
- Increases income for rural communities.
- Preserves biodiversity and native species.
๐ Challenges and Monitoring
- Ensuring high plant survival rates.
- Need for regular monitoring by forest officials.
- Farmers should take care of plants as per prescribed methods to get the next yearโs instalment.
๐ Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- What is the minimum land required to apply for Mukhyamantri Jan Van Yojana?
- A) 0.25 acre
- B) 0.5 acre
- C) 1 acre
- D) 2 acres
- Answer: B) 0.5 acre
- What percentage of cost is covered under this scheme?
- A) 100%
- B) 50%
- C) 25%
- D) 75%
- Answer: D) 75%
- Which department runs the Mukhyamantri Jan Van Yojana scheme?
- A) Agriculture
- B) Environment
- C) Forest, Environment & Climate Change
- D) Urban Development
- Answer: C) Forest, Environment & Climate Change
- Which of these is a recommended fruit tree under Mukhyamantri Jan Van Yojana?
- A) Eucalyptus
- B) Mango
- C) Pine
- D) Sal
- Answer: B) Mango
- Which is NOT an objective of Mukhyamantri Jan Van Yojana?
- A) Boost urban housing
- B) Increase green cover
- C) Enhance farmer income
- D) Groundwater recharge
- Answer: A) Boost urban housing
๐ Conclusion
The Mukhyamantri Jan Van Yojana is more than just a tree plantation drive; it is a mission to create a sustainable future for Jharkhand. Through this scheme, the government is empowering citizens to become stewards of the environment while also improving their economic standing. With continued participation and effective monitoring, the scheme holds the promise to transform the green landscape of Jharkhand.
