Forests are the lifeline of our planet, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, providing clean air, sustaining biodiversity, and combating climate change. Recognizing their immense value, Hon’ble Minister of Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, Shri Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia, emphasized the need for sustainable forest management and environmental conservation. Speaking at the state-level World Forest Day celebration at Lok Seva Bhavan, he highlighted that Odisha’s forest cover, as per the State of the Forest Report 2023, spans 52,433.56 sq. km (33.67%), with an additional 6,163.45 sq. km (3.95%) of tree cover, bringing the total forest and tree cover to 37.63% of the state’s geographical area. Under various afforestation programs, 1.95 crore saplings were planted, 2.33 crore saplings were distributed, and 30,719 hectares were afforested in the past year, with 5.6 crore trees planted under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative. A special step has also been taken to mitigate the impact of lightning by planting 19 lakh palm trees in forest fringe areas.
Shri Satyabrat Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department, highlighted Odisha’s growing coastline, which has expanded from 480 km to 576 km, and the arrival of over 14 lakh Olive Ridley turtles at Rusikulya and Gahirmatha for nesting, marking a proud moment for the state’s conservation efforts. He also mentioned the government’s Aama Similipal Yojana, aimed at developing Similipal into a UNESCO Heritage Site, alongside efforts to promote Bhitarkanika, Debrigarh, and Deomali as world-class ecotourism destinations. Stressing the need for balanced industrial and environmental growth, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustainable development and preventing environmental degradation through scientific forest management and conservation.
During the event, four forest divisions were honored for their exceptional contributions: Nabarangpur Forest Division for afforestation and greening, Keonjhar Forest Division for forest protection, Boudh Forest Division for community-based conservation, and Rourkela Forest Division for using technology in forest management. Forty field officers, including Forest Guards, Officers, and Range Officers, received the State Forestry Award 2025 for outstanding service. A series of publications, including “Highlights of Odisha Forestry Sector 2025”, “Google Earth Engine for Forestry Insights from Odisha”, and “Mammals & Birds of Bonai Forest Division”, were unveiled by Minister Shri Singhkhuntia. A special documentary titled “Our Forest, Our Future” was also screened.
Shri Singhkhuntia called for public participation in afforestation and conservation efforts, urging every citizen to plant at least five trees and nurture them for a healthier future. He stressed that restoring and rehabilitating degraded forests is crucial for ensuring environmental stability, increased productivity, and resilience against climate change. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. K. Murugansen, Additional Chief Conservator of Forests, acknowledging the collective efforts of government bodies, conservationists, and the people of Odisha in protecting and nurturing the state’s invaluable forest resources.
