Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Thursday announced in the state Assembly that the government will introduce a new law for the conservation of khejri trees. Responding to the discussion on the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address, the Chief Minister said the proposed legislation would provide b legal protection to the state tree and would not be a mere formality.
He stated that the khejri tree is closely linked to Rajasthan’s identity and that its protection is a collective responsibility. The Chief Minister said the state government is working with a commitment to preserve heritage alongside development.
Referring to the cultural and historical significance of the khejri, Sharma said it represents sacrifice, valour and vitality in Rajasthan and is deeply connected to the state’s traditions and ecological balance. He noted that the khejri has already been declared the state tree and said that both the government and society must work together for its protection. He appealed to all political parties to view the issue beyond politics.
The Chief Minister assured the House and the people of the state that a law for khejri conservation would be brought. He said officials have already been given necessary instructions and that the legislative process is underway. He added that once the process is completed, the draft Bill will be presented in the Assembly.
Sharma said the objective of the proposed law is to ensure the safety of khejri trees across the state and to prevent indiscriminate felling.
Meanwhile, an agitation demanding protection of khejri trees is continuing in Bikaner. Environmental activists and members of the saint community are seeking the implementation of a tree protection law and a complete ban on the cutting of khejri trees.
On February 5, a delegation reached the protest site to hold talks with the agitators. The delegation included Minister K K Bishnoi, Rajasthan State Animal Welfare Board Chairman Jaswant Singh Bishnoi and BJP state vice-president Bihari Lal Bishnoi. Despite the talks, the protesters remain firm on their demands, stating that they want a concrete law during the current Assembly session.
