Agartala, July 1: Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma on Tuesday inaugurated the 76th State-Level Van Mahotsav at Bahelabari in Khowai subdivision, with a strong message to preserve forests while creating alternative livelihood opportunities. The event was held under the banner “One Tree, One Life,” emphasizing the importance of afforestation.
Speaking on the occasion, the Forest Minister said that instead of destroying forests, efforts must be made to develop alternative income-generating options for forest-dependent communities. He called on citizens to take a stand against forest destruction and encouraged people to plant trees in the names of their mothers, siblings, and relatives as a personal and emotional commitment to conservation.
Highlighting ongoing efforts, the minister stated that various programs under the Indo-German Development Cooperation and JICA project are being implemented in the state to promote forest-based livelihoods. Under the JICA initiative alone, 1,300 check dams have been constructed to support forest conservation.
However, he acknowledged that forest cover in the state has declined to some extent due to deforestation. In response, 6.5 lakh saplings have been planted this year, with a goal to restore forest land over the next five years through systematic afforestation.
Member of Parliament Kriti Devi Debbarma, who was also present at the event, emphasized the importance of forest conservation for the benefit of future generations. She urged everyone to support forest-based tourism as a means of sustainable development in the state.
Government Chief Whip and MLA Kalyani Saha Roy said that Van Mahotsav holds significant relevance in human life and stressed that protecting forests is essential for a healthy life.
Other dignitaries present included MLAs Pinaki Das Chowdhury and Nirmal Biswas, ADC Executive Member Ananta Debbarma, Tulashikhar BAC Chairman Pradeep Debbarma, Superintendent of Police Ranaditya Das, Khowai Additional District Magistrate Abhijit Chakraborty, and PCCF R.K. Samal.
As part of the celebration, the minister and other dignitaries participated in a mass tree plantation drive on the Bahelabari village grounds. Several Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) and Forest Protection Units from different parts of the state were awarded for their contributions. In addition, 19 exhibition stalls showcasing forestry-related activities were also set up at the venue.
