The is taking steps to increase the states geographical area under green cover from 23% to 33%, forest minister K Ramachandran said here on Friday.
Speaking at the 67th Wildlife Week Celebration organised at the Tamil Nadu Forest Academy, the minister said native tree species will be planted in forests. Wildlife can thrive only if there is substantial forest cover. When wildlife Population increases, forests should offer the required food, for which native tree species are necessary. We are focusing on planting more native tree species by removing exotic species like eucalyptus brought by the Britishers, he said.
The minister also unveiled the logo of Coimbatore Forest Division. It has an elephant in the backdrop, symbolising the large number of elephants found in the Western Ghats.