Haryana starts pension scheme for old trees

In an innovative scheme launched by the Haryana government, trees aged 75 years or older located on the property of state’s residents will now get pension. Initially, a pension of Rs 2,750 per annum is being offered for “maintenance and care” of 3,810 trees under the Pran Vayu Devta Pension Scheme, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said, adding the allowance will see annual increments, akin to old-age pension. “Haryana is the first state to implement such a pioneering scheme, aimed at conserving and protecting aging trees,” Khattar said. The CM has asked the state residents, who have trees aged 75 years or older in their homes’ courtyards, to apply for pension by visiting their respective district forest department offices. “Each application will be meticulously reviewed by a committee, ensuring that all criteria are met before the beneficiary receives their pension,” he said.