Punjab Cabinet Approves Tree Protection Bill to Boost Green Cover

On 5 August, the Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann approved the Punjab Tree Protection Bill 2026. The legislation aims to preserve ecological balance, curb pollution, compensate for damage caused by tree felling and increase the state’s green cover from about 5.9 % to 7.5 % by 2030.

The cabinet also passed amendments to the Punjab Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill 2026 to simplify credit‑note issuance, reduce litigation and allow refunds on export duties, and revised the Punjab Panchayati Raj Act 1994 to create a new Panchayat Development Secretary cadre. These measures are intended to streamline trade, support exporters and improve rural administration.

The combined reforms target better environmental protection, enhanced soil conservation and smoother business processes across the largely agricultural state.