Shimla, June 6 -- Himachal Pradesh government has set a target of increasing the state's forest cover to 32% by 2030, said chief minister (CM) Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday. The CM was speaking to the media after planting a Chinar sapling at his official residence Oak Over on World Environment Day. At present Himachal's forest cover stands at 29.5%, as per data. "Planting trees alone is not enough; protecting and ensuring their survival is equally important," Sukhu said while outlining the state's long-term afforestation strategy. The CM said nearly 68% of state's geographical area is classified as forest land, while around 28% is under dense forest cover. "State government has set a target to increase it to 32%." Governor Kavinder Gupta flagged off a Mini Marathon - on the theme "Clean Environment and Chitta-Free Life" from The Ridge Ground. The event was jointly organised by the Himachal Pradesh Police, department of environment, science, technology and climate change, and the census directorate, Himachal Pradesh. Speaking on the occasion, Governor said, "Development cannot be accepted at the cost of the environment. While we often cut through mountains andrivers in pursuit of development, these actions can eventually become harmful to us. Therefore, it is essential that weprotect and conserve our environment. Environmental protection and a drug-free society are the foundations of a better future."...