West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari Plants Trees at Mohor Kunja, Announces Salary Hike for Forest Staff

Suvendu Adhikari tree plantation activities took centre stage at Kolkata’s Mohor Kunja on Tuesday as the West Bengal Chief Minister participated in the Centre’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign and planted a sapling. The Chief Minister emphasised that tree plantation must be followed by sustained care and protection to ensure that newly planted saplings survive and contribute to the city’s green cover.

During the programme, Adhikari urged citizens to look beyond symbolic plantation drives and take responsibility for nurturing trees for at least two years.

“Planting a tree is not enough. It has to be cared for over a period of at least two years,” the Chief Minister said.

CM Emphasises Long-Term Care of Trees

Addressing the gathering at Mohor Kunja, Adhikari said planting a sapling and uploading a photograph on social media should not be treated as the completion of the responsibility.

He stressed that newly planted trees require regular care and protection, particularly during their early stages of growth. According to the Chief Minister, ensuring the survival of planted saplings is as important as increasing the number of trees planted.

The Suvendu Adhikari tree plantation programme therefore focused not only on planting but also on long-term environmental responsibility.

50 Trees Planted at Mohor Kunja

As part of Tuesday’s programme, 50 trees were planted at Mohor Kunja.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to increase green cover and strengthen environmental conservation in and around Kolkata. Adhikari called for greater public participation in plantation and tree-care programmes.

He also highlighted the importance of maintaining Kolkata’s green character amid rapid urbanisation.
CM Calls for Expansion of Kolkata’s Green Cover
Referring to Kolkata’s changing urban landscape, Adhikari said the need to expand the city’s green cover remains significant.

He observed that large stretches of greenery can be seen around New Town when viewed from an aircraft or helicopter, while several other parts of the metropolitan area appear comparatively grey.

The Chief Minister stressed that increasing green spaces would contribute to the city’s environmental health while also improving its overall appearance and quality of life.

Three Crore Trees to Support Mangrove Protection
The Chief Minister also highlighted the state’s efforts to protect mangrove forests.

According to Adhikari, three crore trees will be provided as part of the mangrove protection initiative. Mangroves play an important role in protecting coastal ecosystems and supporting biodiversity.

The announcement comes as environmental conservation remains a key focus of plantation and afforestation initiatives across the state.

Focus on Forest and Environmental Protection
The programme at Mohor Kunja brought together several aspects of the state’s environmental agenda, including:

Increasing urban green cover

Promoting long-term tree care

Protecting mangrove forests

Expanding afforestation initiatives

Supporting frontline forest personnel

The Chief Minister said environmental protection requires sustained efforts rather than one-time campaigns.

Salary Hike Announced for Forest Rangers and Guards

The Mohor Kunja programme also brought a significant announcement for employees of the West Bengal Forest Department.

Adhikari announced a monthly salary increase of Rs 5,000 for forest rangers and forest guards, effective from October.

The Chief Minister acknowledged the risks and responsibilities associated with forest protection and said the salary revision was intended to recognise the contribution of personnel working on the frontline of conservation.

The announcement is expected to provide additional financial support to forest rangers and guards involved in protecting forests and wildlife.

Forest Assistants to Also Receive Pay Increase
Forest assistants will also benefit from the revised remuneration.

According to the Chief Minister, forest assistants currently receiving Rs 10,000 per month will receive Rs 12,000 from October.

The pay revision comes alongside the government’s emphasis on strengthening environmental protection and supporting personnel responsible for implementing conservation measures on the ground.

Environmental Protection and Employee Welfare

The announcements made at Mohor Kunja combine environmental conservation with employee welfare.

While the Suvendu Adhikari tree plantation initiative focused on increasing green cover and ensuring the survival of newly planted trees, the salary announcements addressed the concerns of forest personnel working in challenging conditions.

The Chief Minister's message was clear: expanding the state’s green cover requires both community participation and the support of trained personnel working to protect forests and natural resources.

The Suvendu Adhikari tree plantation programme at Mohor Kunja highlighted the importance of sustained afforestation and responsible environmental stewardship. With 50 trees planted at the venue, the Chief Minister called on citizens to ensure that saplings receive proper care for at least two years.

At the same time, the announcement of salary hikes for forest rangers, forest guards and forest assistants puts the spotlight on the role of frontline personnel in conservation.

The government’s proposed expansion of mangrove protection efforts, including the provision of three crore trees, further underlines its focus on strengthening West Bengal’s environmental conservation initiatives.