Jaipur, October 16 (Daily Kiran): The Rajasthan government has begun preparing a comprehensive action plan to completely eradicate Vilayati Babool (Prosopis Juliflora) from across the state. A joint meeting of various departments was held on Thursday at the Panchayati Raj auditorium in the Secretariat under the chairmanship of Panchayati Raj Minister Madan Dilawar. Panchayati Raj State Minister Otaram Devasi also attended the meeting.
Addressing the meeting via video conference from Jodhpur, Minister Dilawar said that all departments must work in close coordination to ensure the effective and permanent removal of the invasive plant. He stated that after the Forest and Revenue Departments issue clear and transparent guidelines, a village-level campaign will be launched across the state for its systematic eradication.
Dilawar directed officials to issue an order soon so that repeated permissions for cutting the plant are not required and no legal or procedural hurdles arise. He explained that Vilayati Babool is an aggressive foreign species posing a severe threat to Rajasthan’s rural lands, grazing areas, and environment. Its deep roots—reaching up to 30 feet—and high water absorption capacity—up to 15 meters—are leading to a decline in groundwater levels and soil fertility, while also displacing native vegetation.
He further emphasized that the eradication drive must be organized and well-coordinated among all departments, ensuring that other useful trees remain unharmed during cutting. Considering the challenges in transporting charcoal derived from this species, Dilawar suggested simplifying the transport permission process. He also proposed a three- to four-year long-term plan to ensure complete eradication, given the plant’s tendency to regrow.
State Minister Otaram Devasi termed Vilayati Babool a major threat to grazing lands, farms, and natural water bodies, stressing that its removal is a top government priority. He called for a phased eradication campaign using MNREGA and local resources, with public participation. “With collective efforts from all departments and the people, we can soon realize the dream of a Vilayati Babool-free Rajasthan,” he said.
The meeting was attended by Dr. Joga Ram, Principal Secretary and Commissioner, Panchayati Raj Department, along with senior officials from the Forest, Revenue, Rural Development, Water Resources, and Collection Departments.
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