NRI Sabha Punjab’s initiative offers a dual solution to safeguard land ownership and promote afforestation
Non-resident Indians (NRIs) from Punjab often struggle with illegal land grabs, especially when leasing their farmlands. Many, after prolonged legal battles, reluctantly sell their properties to avoid further disputes. To address this growing concern, NRI Sabha Punjab has introduced a groundbreaking proposal, ‘Gold for NRIs, Green for Punjab,’ which not only protects land ownership but also aids in ecological restoration, reported indianexpress.com.
NRIs collectively own over 25 per cent of Punjab’s farmland, and this initiative offers them a sustainable way to retain ownership while contributing to afforestation. According to Satnam Singh Chana, senior vice president of NRI Sabha Punjab, this plan allows NRIs to stay connected to their homeland without the fear of encroachment.
Punjab’s forest cover is alarmingly low, at just 3.65 per cent of its total geographical area—far below the national average of 21.76 per cent. Deforestation and groundwater depletion pose serious threats, with Punjab losing 2 sq km of forest cover between 2019 and 2021. The excessive reliance on paddy cultivation has further exacerbated the crisis, as the state extracts groundwater at an unsustainable rate.
Encouraging afforestation on NRI-owned lands could reverse these environmental concerns. Agroforestry offers an eco-friendly alternative to water-intensive crops, helping conserve groundwater, reduce soil erosion, and mitigate climate change. Even if 10 per cent of NRIs adopt this model, it could have a transformative impact.
Economic and environmental benefits for NRIs
The proposal provides NRIs with financial incentives by promoting the cultivation of timber trees such as teak, eucalyptus, and sheesham, which have high market value. For instance, a teak plantation on one acre can generate up to ₹1.3 crore in 7-10 years, with minimal input costs. Additionally, NRIs can leverage carbon credit benefits and capitalize on the rising demand for timber in industries like furniture and construction.
The proposal encourages NRIs to use their farmland for tree plantations instead of leasing or selling, ensuring both financial benefits and environmental conservation
Apart from financial gains, agroforestry ensures land protection. Unlike leased farmland, tree plantations require minimal maintenance and reduce the risk of illegal occupation. The long-term stability of forestry investments makes them comparable to fixed deposits, offering reliable returns while preserving land for future generations.
A call to action for Punjab’s NRIs
With nearly 10 million NRIs from Punjab owning farmlands, NRI Sabha Punjab’s proposal presents a viable solution to retain their assets while contributing to the state’s environmental sustainability. NRI Sabha President Parvinder Kaur urges NRIs to take responsibility for preserving Punjab’s natural resources, emphasizing that agroforestry is a well-researched and sustainable initiative gaining traction among the diaspora.
By adopting afforestation, NRIs can secure their land, enhance Punjab’s green cover, revive groundwater levels, generate income, and maintain a strong connection with their roots—all while playing a crucial role in the state’s ecological and economic well-being.
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