Ramnagar: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the Jan Van Mahotsav (People’s Forest Festival) in Ramnagar on the occasion of Uttarakhand’s Silver Jubilee State Foundation Day. The event was organized by the Uttarakhand Forest Department, with Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal also present.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between development and environmental protection. He said that the state government is consistently working to link people with employment and livelihood opportunities while preserving Uttarakhand’s rich biodiversity.
Environmental Commitment and Wildlife Conservation
Highlighting the progress in wildlife conservation, CM Dhami said that the population of tigers, snow leopards, leopards, and elephants has shown a significant increase in the state, reflecting Uttarakhand’s long-standing commitment to environmental protection.
He remarked, “Our generation has been protecting nature for centuries. Environmental conservation is part of our cultural values. Our government remains committed to strengthening both the environment and the economy.”
The Chief Minister also announced that the government is developing 62 new tourism destinations across the state to generate employment and promote sustainable development. Additionally, a wood-based industry policy will soon be introduced to support local industries.
Read also: CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Highlights Farmer Empowerment at Uttarakhand Silver Jubilee Conference
Exhibition Stalls and Public Participation
During the event, CM Dhami inspected over 15 stalls set up by the Forest Department and various women self-help groups (SHGs). These stalls showcased:
- Eco-friendly and handmade products prepared by women’s groups
- Wildlife rescue equipment and treatment devices
- Plantation seeds and forest conservation exhibits
- Information displays on forest department schemes and initiatives
The exhibits reflected the department’s dedication to wildlife preservation, eco-restoration, and rural empowerment.
Student Participation and Creative Engagement
A painting competition on wildlife and environmental conservation was also organized for school students. Children creatively depicted forest life and wildlife themes through their artwork.
Officials from the Corbett Tiger Reserve, forest divisions of the Kumaon region, and senior forest officers, including Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Sameer Sinha, Corbett Director Saket Badola, DFO Prakash Chandra Arya, Forest Secretary Ramesh Kumar Sudhanshu, Chief Wildlife Warden R.K. Mishra, and Chief Conservator Tejashwini Patil, attended the event.
Local MLA Diwan Singh Bisht was also present.
A Festival to Celebrate Forests and Awareness
The Kumaon-level Jan Van Mahotsav, held at Nagar Van in Ramnagar, aims to raise public awareness about forest and wildlife conservation through exhibitions, cultural programs, and student participation.
After attending the event, CM Dhami also participated in the Rover Ranger Program organized by the Scouts and Guides at the Government Degree College, Ramnagar, before returning to Dehradun.
