Panaji, Jun 17 (IANS): Taking cue from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's personal letters to sarpanchas across the country urging their participation in water harvesting efforts, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has urged all state ministers and MLAs to undertake tree plantation to increase Goa's green cover.

"As we are welcoming rains in the ensuing monsoon season, I would invite you to join hands with me to improve green cover of Goa by taking up tree plantation activities in all possible areas with the involvement of every member of society," Sawant said in his letter to all legislators.

Sawant has also urged all legislators to co-ordinate with the state Forest Department to undertake extensive tree plantation drives as part of the Vanamahotsava programme organised by the state government from July to September.

"I urge you to guide the forest department in selection of sites for plantation, ranging from parks and gardens, schools, colleges, office and residential campuses, industrial complexes, roadsides, community land and grace such plantation drives for motivating the people," Sawant said in his letter.