Miyawaki Forests: A Green Initiative in Assam's Seuj
Axom Abhijan

Context: Seuj Axom Abhijan to increase
forest cover of State from 36% to 38% in 5 years using Miyawaki
Forest model

Miyawaki Forests: A Boon for Assam's Green Cover

Assam, known for its lush greenery and biodiversity, has
recently embarked on a significant green initiative called Seuj Axom Abhijan.
One of the key components of this ambitious project is the creation of Miyawaki
forests. These dense, biodiverse forests are named after Japanese botanist Akira
Miyawaki, who developed the method of creating them.

What are Miyawaki Forests?

Miyawaki forests are densely planted, fast-growing
forests that mimic the natural growth patterns of primary
forests. They are characterized by:

High
biodiversity: They support a wide variety of plant species,
creating a rich ecosystem.

Rapid
growth: Miyawaki forests grow 10 times faster than
conventionally planted forests.

Minimal
maintenance: Once established, they require minimal human
intervention.

Benefits of Miyawaki Forests:

1. Environmental:

1. a. Increase
   green cover


2. b. Improve
   air quality


3. c. Reduce
   soil erosion


4. d. Provide
   habitat for wildlife


5. e. Absorbs
   dust particles


6. f. Regulates
   surface temperature


7. g. Encourages
   biodiversity


8. h. Increases
   soil fertility




• 2. Climate
  Change Mitigation:




1. a. Absorb
   carbon dioxide


2. b. Help
   regulate local climate


3. c. Reduces
   pollution levels




• 3. Community
  Benefits:




1. a. Create
   recreational spaces


2. b. Enhance
   property values


3. c. Provides
   green spaces in urban areas

Miyawaki
Forest Method in Mumbai

The cost-effective Miyawaki Plantation Method has become a popular
choice for restoring green cover in space-constrained cities like Mumbai. The
Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has implemented this approach in
various vacant land areas to combat climate change, reduce pollution, and
enhance the city's green cover. So far, 64 Miyawaki forests have been planted
in Mumbai.

Inspiring story of Raafi Ramnath :  A teacher from Kerala, who utilized the Miyawaki
method to convert a barren piece of land into a miniature forest
named Vidyavanam.

Seuj Axom Abhijan and Miyawaki Forests

Assam's Seuj Axom Abhijan aims to plant 5 crore saplings in
the state. Miyawaki forests are a crucial part of this initiative. By planting
dense, fast-growing forests, the state can quickly increase its green cover and
address environmental challenges.

Miyawaki forests offer a sustainable and effective solution
for increasing green cover and addressing environmental challenges. Assam's
Seuj Axom Abhijan is a commendable step towards a greener and healthier future
for the state.

AUTHOR: ARJUN KR. PAUL, FACULTY