(a) whether the Government is considering a proposal to levy a `Green Cess` to mop up resources in order to achieve the target of extending the green cover to 33 per cent of the country`s landscape;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the matter has been discussed with the various State Governments; and
(d) if so, their reaction thereto?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)
(a) & (b) A number of administrative and financial measures are being considered for achieving the target of increased forest cover. These are at an initial stage of examination.
(c) & (d) The subject has been discussed with the various State Governments in different fora. They have made several valuable suggestions.