Seethakka Calls For Public Role In Forest Protection
The minister said there is international demand for Mahua and bamboo products, and that local tribal communities are being trained in their cultivation: Reports
ADILABAD: Minister for rural development Danasari Anasuya Seethakka on Friday called for public participation in environmental protection, stating that ecological balance depends on conservation of forests.
Addressing a World Environment Day programme at Incharla Eco Park in Mulugu district as part of the 99 Days Prajapalana Pragati Pranalika, she said Mulugu has significant tourism potential with lakes, forests, temples and hill areas. She said the Mulugu Assembly constituency has 77 per cent forest cover, while the district records 64 per cent, the highest in the state.
She said efforts would be made to improve greenery and forest cover around Medaram, and stressed the role of community participation in conservation. She said special committees such as Vana Samrakshana Samitis, involving sarpanches, elected representatives and youth, could be formed to strengthen forest protection.
The minister said there is international demand for Mahua and bamboo products, and that local tribal communities are being trained in their cultivation. She directed officials to take up large-scale plantation of these species, referring to their cultural significance linked to Sammakka and Saralamma.
She also visited Laknavaram Lake, Ramappa temple and Malluru, and said the Godavari river belt is attracting international tourists, with plans to develop Mulugu as a tourism hub.
Officials including chief conservator of forests B. Prabhakar, district collector Bhorkhande Hemant Sahadevrao, DFO Vikas Meena, SP Sudheer Ramanath Kekan and ITDA project officer Lenin Vatsal Toppo were present.
