Government making efforts to increase green cover: President Kovind

NPnews24 Online New Delhi: A group of probationers of the Indian Forest Service (2018-20 batch) called on President Ram Nath Kovind, on July 23 at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the national capital.

Addressing the probationers, the President Kovind said, “The Central government and state governments are making considerable efforts to protect the forest wealth of our country and increase green cover.

However, sustainability and success of ecological restoration and conservation lies in mass mobilisation. A large number of poor people, including tribals, live in and around the forests of our country. It is through forests that they fulfil their basic needs of food and fodder. These people are simple and hard-working – and they are very wise. They respect forests as part of their traditions and beliefs. Any measures to protect forests should be sensitive to the basic needs of these people and involve them as partners.”

The president added that the joint forest management model that India has adopted envisages working with local people and communities in the management of forests. “Linking livelihood opportunities with conservation efforts is important for ensuring effective participation of local people,” he added.

The President further said that once people and communities are involved in forest management efforts, the solutions the forest officers seek shall become more sustainable and effective.