Bhadradri-Kothagudem Forest Officer Stresses Biodiversity Protection

Nalgonda: Bhadradri-Kothagudem district forest officer G. Kista Goud on Thursday stressed the need for forest diversification, ecological restoration and biodiversity protection.

Addressing a communities eco-activities meeting organised by ITC Bhadrachalam at its premises, he called for collective efforts to conserve natural resources, strengthen green cover and safeguard wildlife habitats. He urged community participation in environmental conservation and sustainable land management, and asked local groups to create awareness against littering in parks, streets and water bodies to prevent pollution.

The officer outlined government initiatives, including social forestry plantations, sustainable agriculture practices, biodiversity conservation in forests and common lands, and programmes on farmer livelihood enhancement, primary education, women empowerment, health and sanitation, solid waste management, and vocational training for rural youth. He also emphasised the need to sensitise students on environmental protection and maintaining pollution-free localities.

ITC unit head and vice-president Shailender Singh said the company was promoting environmental conservation and community welfare through various initiatives. He said coordinated efforts between ITC, the forest department and local communities were essential for long-term ecological and socio-economic benefits, and reiterated ITC’s commitment to biodiversity conservation, livelihood improvement and sustainable rural development.

Speakers at the meeting discussed developmental initiatives, sustainable natural resource management, biodiversity conservation and future action plans for community development.

ITC general manager Shyam Kiran, deputy general manager Chengal Rao and representatives of non-government organisations were present.