Bihar selects 32 trees for ‘Heritage Tree’ status

Patna, June 16: In a significant move toward preserving Bihar’s ecological and cultural legacy, Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Bihar, through Bihar Biodiversity Board, has shortlisted 32 trees across five districts—Buxar, Aurangabad, Munger, Jamui, and Bhagalpur—for designation as Biodiversity Heritage Trees. Among these, 28 trees are estimated to be over 100 years old, with most remarkable being a majestic Banyan tree in Madanpur block of Aurangabad, believed to be approximately 500 years old.

Selection of tree was made from an initial list of over 1,500 trees following rigorous field verification. Detailed guidelines for heritage tree identification were issued to district collectors and divisional forest officers. Criteria included tree age (typically more than three generations), historical or mythological significance, ecological uniqueness, endangered species status, or scientific value. Final list features a diverse range of species: Banyan (12), Peepal (6), Pakad (3), Mahua (2), Neem (2), Khirni (1), Semal (2), Gular (1), Tamarind (1), Kalpavriksha (1), Kanak Champa (1). 500-year-old Banyan tree in Aurangabad stands as the oldest among them, while remaining trees range in age from 70 to over 100 years.

To foster citizen engagement and ensure sustained protection, government has launched ‘Bihar Heritage Tree App’. This digital platform allows individuals and local representatives to upload images and GPS-tagged details of notable trees in their locality. Submissions that meet heritage criteria will be evaluated and potentially added to the official list. These trees are more than just components of natural environment—they are silent witnesses to Bihar’s historical, spiritual, and cultural evolution.