Massive tree planting scheme launched

Tamil Nadu government today launched a massive tree plantation drive, with Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa planting the first of the 66 lakh saplings at the state police headquartes here.
In 2012 and 2013, the government had successfully planted 64 lakh and 65 lakh saplings respectively, a release here said, adding, following the good response received to it the government was continuing with the scheme this year at an estimated Rs 49.18 crore.
A total of 2,06,250 saplings will be planted in each of the 32 districts, totalling 66 lakh, in an apparent reference to the Chief Minister's age. Jayalalithaa will turn 66 on February 24.

The scheme will end in December this year and will be carried out in forest areas, campuses of educational institutions, government and private offices and roadsides.
Various varieties including banyan and neem that can withstand drought will be planted, it said.
Jayalalithaa planted a banyan tree-sapling at the DGP office here in the presence of Ministers and senior government and police officials.