Delhi Forest Department to Launch Urban Farming Project in September

Delhi's forest department is set to launch an ambitious urban farming project in September this year to empower citizens to cultivate vegetables within the confines of their balconies and terraces. The project, announced by the Delhi government in April last year, aims to address the shrinking availability of land for traditional plantations and promote sustainable agriculture in the urban landscape.

Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, revealed that interested candidates would be able to register for the urban farming project through a dedicated portal. The initiative is part of the Rozgar budget, signifying its commitment to promoting green initiatives and generating employment opportunities in the agriculture sector.

Initially, the Indian Agricultural Research Institute intended to conduct training workshops for urban farming. However, the Forest and wildlife department has now taken up the responsibility. Each workshop will accommodate 30 participants and will be conducted at the ward level. The city will witness two workshops in each ward, where individuals will be taught the art of cultivating various vegetables in an urban environment.

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Minister Gopal Rai emphasized the significance of urban farming in the face of diminishing arable land. As open spaces become increasingly scarce, urban farming provides a viable alternative for citizens to grow crops on rooftops or balconies. By promoting this sustainable practice, the Delhi government aims to ensure fresh produce is accessible to urban dwellers while reducing the burden on traditional agricultural land.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed his support for the project, highlighting its uniqueness and potential to involve people from all walks of life. Urban farming empowers citizens, regardless of their background, to embark on small-scale farming of fruits and vegetables, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency and environmental responsibility.

To encourage participation and foster the growth of urban farming, the Delhi government plans to provide support to urban farmers by offering seeds and other essential resources. This assistance aims to bolster the project's success and incentivize citizens to adopt sustainable agricultural practices in their daily lives.

The upcoming urban farming project is a progressive step towards building a greener and more resilient city. By integrating nature into the urban fabric, Delhi seeks to create a harmonious coexistence between its inhabitants and the environment, contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.

As the launch date approaches, citizens eagerly await the opportunity to embark on their urban farming journey, nurturing green spaces within the heart of the bustling city, and contributing to the collective vision of a greener, healthier Delhi.

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