Context:

• The Haryana government has taken a significant step towards environmental conservation with the introduction of the Pran Vayu Devta Pension Scheme.

Key Points:

• This innovative initiative aims to preserve and protect heritage trees across the state, recognizing their ecological, cultural, and historical importance. By providing financial incentives, the scheme not only promotes tree conservation but also fosters a sense of responsibility among citizens towards their natural heritage.

The Pran Vayu Devta Pension Scheme is a pioneering program designed specifically to protect and maintain trees that are 75 years or older. The scheme is characterized by several key features:

• Annual pension: Eligible trees will receive an annual pension of ?2,500, which will be directly deposited into the bank account of the tree's custodian.
• Duration: The scheme is set to operate for an initial period of five years, with the potential for extension based on its success and impact.
• Pension mechanism: The direct transfer of funds to custodians aims to ensure that the financial support reaches those responsible for the care of these trees.

Eligibility criteria

To qualify for the Pran Vayu Devta Pension Scheme, trees must meet specific selection parameters:

• Minimum age requirement: Trees must be at least 75 years old.
• Exclusions: The scheme does not cover fallen, hollow, dead, dry, or diseased trees, ensuring that only healthy and living heritage trees are supported.

Implementation

The successful implementation of the scheme relies on a systematic identification process, overseen by the Pran Vayu Devta Tree Conservation Committee. This committee is tasked with:

• Identifying eligible trees: Conducting thorough assessments to determine which trees qualify for the pension.
• Mapping and inventory creation: Developing a comprehensive inventory of eligible trees to facilitate monitoring and management.
• Conducting a Detailed Census: Ensuring accurate data collection to support the scheme's objectives.

Geographic scope

• The scheme aims to cover a maximum of 4,000 trees before the next review, with specific location restrictions in place. Notably, trees located on forest lands are not eligible for the pension, focusing instead on urban and rural areas where community engagement can be maximized.