BHUBANESWAR: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attended the state-level International Day of Forests celebrations at the Lok Seva Convention Centre today. He emphasized that forests are nature’s greatest gift and form the foundation of our lives and livelihoods. 
Key statistics shared by the Chief Minister include:
He also issued a stern warning against human-made forest fires. He directed the department to take strict action against those responsible for starting fires and called for better management of human-wildlife conflicts.
Forest Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia emphasized the development of tribal and forest-dwelling communities. He noted that the government is creating new livelihood opportunities so these residents do not depend solely on forest resources.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg discussed the long-term goals for 2036 and 2047. She highlighted that the tourism sector aims to create 25 lakh jobs, with forests playing a major role. She stressed the need to transition toward a "Green Economy" alongside the "Blue Economy."
The event concluded with the Chief Minister releasing books on forest safety and honoring outstanding forest officers, foresters, and guards for their dedicated service.
Odisha Leads in Green Cover
During the event, the Chief Minister highlighted Odisha's success in environmental conservation. He noted that the state has become a leader in forest protection and increasing green belts through better management and massive plantation drives.Key statistics shared by the Chief Minister include:
- Growth: Odisha’s forest and tree cover increased by 558 square kilometers over the last two years.
- Total Area: Currently, 37.63% of the state's total land (58,597 square kilometers) is covered by forests and trees.
- Plantation Drive: Under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, the state planted 1.49 crore saplings in a single day and over 8 crore saplings in one year.
Balancing Industry and Environment
Chief Minister Majhi spoke about the role of modern technology in sustainable development. He stated that it is now possible to build industries using less space and without polluting the environment. He urged officials to maintain a balance between industrial growth and nature, making them partners in progress rather than rivals.Forests as an Economic Driver
Focusing on this year's theme, "Forests and Economy," the CM explained that forests are vital for the state's financial growth. The government is working to turn forest conservation into a reliable source of income for local communities.
He also issued a stern warning against human-made forest fires. He directed the department to take strict action against those responsible for starting fires and called for better management of human-wildlife conflicts.
Future Goals: Green and Blue Economy
Other high-ranking officials shared their vision for the state's future.Forest Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia emphasized the development of tribal and forest-dwelling communities. He noted that the government is creating new livelihood opportunities so these residents do not depend solely on forest resources.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg discussed the long-term goals for 2036 and 2047. She highlighted that the tourism sector aims to create 25 lakh jobs, with forests playing a major role. She stressed the need to transition toward a "Green Economy" alongside the "Blue Economy."
The event concluded with the Chief Minister releasing books on forest safety and honoring outstanding forest officers, foresters, and guards for their dedicated service.
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