Odisha Highlights Forest Growth and Green Economy Vision on International Day of Forests

Bhubaneswar: Reiterating the importance of forests in sustainable development, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday underscored Odisha’s progress in expanding green cover and conserving biodiversity while attending a programme marking the International Day of Forests at the Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Centre.

The Chief Minister reviewed a photo exhibition highlighting the state’s forest initiatives and said Odisha has emerged as a frontrunner in green cover expansion through a combination of scientific forest management and people’s participation. He described forests as critical to both environmental protection and human well-being.

Focusing on emerging challenges, Majhi noted that issues such as forest fires, climate change, and human-wildlife conflict require stronger preventive measures. He said the state is increasingly relying on modern technologies like drones and artificial intelligence to improve monitoring and response systems.

Encouraging public involvement, he appealed to citizens to adopt sustainable lifestyles and actively participate in tree plantation drives, including the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative.

Officials highlighted that Odisha has significantly increased its forest and tree cover, which now stands at 37.63% of the total geographical area, with substantial additions recorded in recent years. Large-scale plantation efforts have further strengthened the state’s green footprint.

Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia emphasised that the department is working to improve livelihoods in forest areas, especially in tribal districts, by promoting alternative income opportunities beyond forest dependence.

Chief Secretary Anu Garg stressed the economic potential of forests, noting their role in employment generation, particularly through tourism. She highlighted the need to develop forests as both ecological and economic assets, aligning with the broader vision of building a Green Economy in Odisha.

The programme highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to integrate conservation with development, ensuring long-term environmental sustainability alongside economic growth.