- Experts discuss scientific techniques, importance of afforestation and managing forests for the future
- Workshop organized on World Forestry Day
the Forest Department and various organizations organize workshops to promote forest conservation, tree planting, and environmental awareness. Experts discuss scientific techniques, the importance of afforestation, and forest management for a sustainable future. The chief guest at the event was Minister of Forests and Climate Change, Shri Kedar Kashyap. He stated that the lives of the people of Chhattisgarh are based on nature, and continuous efforts are being made to conserve and enhance forests in the state. He commended the increase in forest area, the increase in wildlife populations, and the state’s achievement of its first Ramsar site. He also called for the implementation of departmental plans in a target-based and phased manner. Books related to forest ecosystem services assessment, climate change, and traditional knowledge were released by TERI, New Delhi, at the event.
On the occasion of World Forestry Day, a one-day workshop was organized by Chhattisgarh State Climate Change Centre, Forest and Climate Change Department in Dandakaranya Auditorium, Aranya Bhawan, Naya Raipur. The program was chaired by Mr. Vikas Markam, Chhattisgarh Local Health Tradition and Medicinal Plant Board. He said that it is the duty of the government and all of us in the society not to cut the forests or allow them to be cut. Additional Chief Secretary Mrs. Richa Sharma, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief of Forest Force Mr. V. Srinivas Rao, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Mr. Arun Kumar Pandey and many senior officers were present.
Additional Chief Secretary, Mrs. Richa Sharma, stated that linking the role of forests to local economies and livelihoods is essential to ensure economic benefits while conserving biodiversity. She emphasized the need to develop projects under climate change-related financial resources such as the GCF, GEF, and other schemes.
The workshop also included technical sessions and panel discussions. The technical sessions included presentations on the ecosystem services provided by forests, information on Green Climate Fund projects, and discussions on financial assistance options available through NABARD. During the panel discussions, experts shared their views on progress in forestry and climate change. Beneficiaries involved in the National Adaptation Fund project also shared their experiences.
It is noteworthy that the United Nations celebrates World Forestry Day every year on March 21st. This year’s theme is “Forests and Economies,” which aims to highlight the economic and environmental importance of forests. This workshop is an important initiative to promote a forest-based economy in the state, conserve biodiversity, and raise awareness about addressing the challenges of climate change.