Tree Outside Forest in Rajasthan 2024

Article on ‘”Tree Outside Forest in Rajasthan 2023“: 5 Crores Saplings To Be Planted Under This Scheme.

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Tree Outside Forest In Rajasthan

Forest Department of Rajasthan is all set to start a very ambitious program called “Tree Outside Forest in Rajasthan” from 1st July 2023. This program aims to substantially increase green cover outside notified forest areas.

Under this scheme, the target has been set stating that Five Crore Saplings will be planted outside the forest areas and out of these, one crore saplings are going to be planted on Gochar, Oran and pasture land while another target has been set to plant one crore saplings in various urban areas of the State of Rajasthan.

The remaining three crore saplings will be made available for all the people so that they can plant them in their homes and fields.

This article brings to you all the necessary information regarding Trees Outside Forest, the importance of trees outside the forest, types of forest, threats faced and government initiatives.

What is a tree outside a forest?

A tree outside a forest is also known as a tree outside of a closed forest (TOFC). A tree outside a forest is a tree that is found in areas that are not legally specified as “Forest”. These areas can be classified as agricultural fields, urban areas, and even deserts.

Rajasthan is known for its vast Thar desert and arid climate, but surprisingly, it is also home to a diverse range of trees outside forest areas.

From the hardy Khejri tree to the mighty Neem tree, these trees play a critical role in providing a variety of ecosystem services. Moreover, they help in maintaining local water resources and preventing soil erosion.

What is the importance of trees outside forest?

The importance of Trees outside forests plays a critical role in Rajasthan’s ecosystem.
Trees outside forests in Rajasthan help regulate water cycles, reduce soil erosion, and mitigate the effects of climate change.
They provide vital habitat for wildlife, and their leaves and are used as fodder for livestock.
Trees outside forests also provide a valuable source of firewood, timber, and other non-timber forest.
Furthermore, they improve air quality and enhance the beauty of the state’s landscape.

Given their importance to the ecosystem, it is essential to protect the trees outside forests in Rajasthan.

Which trees are found in Rajasthan forest?

The trees that are found in Rajasthan Forest are Deciduous Trees such as Oak, Maple, and Birch; Evergreen Trees such as Pine, Spruce, and fur; Fruit Bearing Trees such as Apple and Peach.

1. Deciduous Trees such as Oak, Maple and Birch:

Deciduous Trees such as oak are one of the most recognizable trees in the world, and they are found in many different regions and climates.
Secondly, Maple trees are known for their distinct leaves that have three to five pointed lobes.
Thirdly, Birches are deciduous trees that are known for their distinctive white bark and delicate leaves.

2. Coniferous trees such as Pine, Spruce and Fir

Coniferous Trees such as the pine tree which are evergreen and they retain their needles year-round with its characteristic bundled needles and rough bark, is known for its ability to adapt to diverse conditions.
Secondly, Spruce trees, on the other hand, boast slender needles and distinctive drooping branches that give them an elegant appearance.
Finally, fir trees, with their soft and upright branches, are often specified for their pleasant aroma and are commonly used as ornamental trees during the season.

3. Fruit-bearing trees such as Apple and Peach Trees

Fruit Bearing Trees such as apple trees (genus Malus) are native to Central Asia and have been cultivated for thousands of years.
Peach trees (genus Prunus persica) are believed to have originated in China and have a long history of cultivation. The trees bear attractive pink blossoms in spring, followed by succulent peaches in summer.

Guidelines for TOFR (Trees Outside Forest in Rajasthan)

You can download the Rajasthan Trees Outside Forest guideline PDF from the download button here.

Threats faced by Trees outside forest in Rajasthan

Trees outside forests in Rajasthan face numerous threats due to multiple reasons such as deforestation, urbanization, agriculture expansion, illegal logging, and climate change.
Trees outside forests are often left unprotected as they are situated outside designated forest areas and, thus, are more vulnerable to damage caused by human activities.
Additionally, grazing and fire incidences also pose a significant threat to the survival of these trees.
With overpopulation and developmental activities, these threats are likely to escalate.

The challenges faced by tree forests in Rajasthan require immediate attention and conservation measures to ensure their survival and sustain an ecosystem.

Conservation of Trees Outside Forest in Rajasthan:-

The conservation of trees outside forests has to combat increasing deforestation rates, land degradation, and water scarcity in the state.
The efforts to conserve trees outside forests in Rajasthan are essential to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change by maintaining ecosystem services, and supporting sustainable livelihoods and local biodiversity.

Trees outside the forest cover in Rajasthan are often overlooked but play a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of local communities.

Government Initiatives

Governments around the world have recognized the importance of trees outside forests in maintaining ecological balance and providing numerous benefits to society. Several initiatives have been launched to promote the planting and nurturing of such trees.

Governments are encouraging individual organizations, and communities to plant and protect trees in urban and peri-urban lands. Specific programs such as tree planting drives, sidewalk tree planting and community forestry are being implemented to support this cause.

In addition to this, municipalities are also imposing strict regulations to prevent the indiscrimination of trees and encourage responsible tree management.

Conclusion

In conclusion, trees outside forests are crucial for maintaining a healthy environment and sustainable development.

The preservation and expansion of trees outside forests should be prioritized, especially in urban areas where green spaces are limited. However, planting trees alone is not sufficient, a holistic approach towards that is needed.