Javadekar launches e-payment for afforestation funds

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday launched an e-payment module to make quicker and more transparent the process of payments for diverting forest land under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) fund.

Speaking at the launch here, Javadekar said the module will "end delays" in the deposit of compensatory levies as the e-payment will be made to the designated account, depending on the state in which the forest land, proposed to be diverted, is located.

"The deposit of compensatory levies through the e-portal will be optional till Aug 31 and will become compulsory from Sep 1," he said.

"Technology must be used to the advantage of all and the government's endeavour has been to simplify administrative procedures, without compromising on environmental safeguards," he added.

The CAMPA funds are meant to promote afforestation and regeneration activities as a way of compensating for forest land diverted to non-forest uses.