Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi addressed the State-Level Forest Officers’ Conference at Lok Seva Bhavan Convention Centre, issuing key directives on sensitive engagement with local communities, enhanced green initiatives, and zero-tolerance towards corruption.
Emphasising harmony between tribal communities and forest conservation, the CM stated that one-fourth of Odisha’s population belongs to tribal groups residing in forested regions. He urged forest officials to adopt a compassionate approach while implementing forest protection laws, especially among the poor, tribal, and marginalised groups.
To mitigate human-elephant conflict, he proposed cultivating paddy on vacant forest lands to provide food for elephants. Additionally, he emphasised planting fruit and flower-bearing trees in populated areas to ensure community participation in afforestation. Officials were encouraged to focus on shade-giving and utility trees that benefit locals and invite stewardship.
The CM also commended the Forest Department’s efforts in curbing forest fires and wildlife hunting, but stressed the need to achieve 100% success using public awareness campaigns and innovative technology. Voluntary organisations and citizen safety platforms were urged to collaborate in forest protection efforts.
Highlighting the state’s vision for a prosperous and green Odisha by 2036, Majhi emphasised skill training and research for departmental staff and called for a dedication to public service.
The Minister for Forest, Environment & Climate Change, Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia, underlined the department’s vital role in maintaining ecological balance and commended the dedication of forest officials. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja emphasised biodiversity preservation and improving livelihoods in forest communities.
A tripartite MoU was signed between Odisha State Seed Corporation, Regional Plant Research Centre, and Horticulture Department to supply high-quality fruit saplings to farmers at subsidised rates.
Senior officials, including Principal Chief Conservators, divisional officers, and field staff, participated, reinforcing commitment to sustainable forestry and community engagement.
