'Majhe Van' Initiative To Revive 338 Acres Of Forest In Alibag Without Government Funds

In a landmark step towards ecological restoration, 338 acres of degraded forest land in the Alibag Forest Division are set to be revived under the newly launched “Majhe Van” (My Forest) initiative. The scheme, conceptualized by Deputy Conservator of Forests Rahul Patil, aims to bring barren patches back to life—without the use of government funds.

The initiative will be inaugurated on May 22 by Forest Minister Shri Ganesh Naik through a tree plantation drive at Compartment No. 50A in Mouje Jumapatti, Taluka Karjat (Matheran Range), marking the beginning of a district-wide effort to reforest neglected land.

The project involves 338 field-level forest staff—including officers and guards—each voluntarily adopting one acre of degraded forest land within their jurisdiction. Participants will carry out tree plantation during the 2025 monsoon season at their own expense and will be responsible for nurturing and protecting the area. Each officer will also have the freedom to name their adopted plot, instilling a sense of personal responsibility.

With 338 acres targeted for restoration, the Majhe Van scheme is expected to significantly boost tree cover and ecological health in the region. By empowering forest personnel to lead the effort, the initiative places accountability and stewardship directly in the hands of those working on the ground.

The Alibag Forest Division spans 11 forest ranges, including Alibag, Vadkhal, Pen, Panvel, Uran, Khalapur, Karjat East, Karjat West, Matheran, Sudhagad, and Nagothane, covering a total of 1,065.61 sq. km of forest area.