Bhubaneswar: Nature’s unique gift is our green cover, and it serves as the foundation of our lives and livelihoods, stated Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi during the celebration of World Forestry Day 2026 today.
Speaking at the state level event held at the Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Centre in Bhubaneswar, the Chief Minister emphasized that World Forestry Day is observed to create public awareness about the importance of forests in maintaining a healthy environment and human life. The day is dedicated to spreading consciousness regarding forest conservation and the challenges of climate change.
The Chief Minister further noted that through excellent forest management practices, extensive plantation drives, and public awareness, Odisha has established itself as a leading state in the country for forest protection and the creation of green belts. Over the past two years alone, the state has seen an increase of 558 square kilometers in forest and tree cover. Currently, 37.63 percent of the state’s total geographical area, amounting to 58,597 square kilometers, is covered by forests and trees. Under the Prime Minister’s historic Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign, 1.49 crore saplings were planted in a single day, with a total of over 8 crore saplings planted within a year in the state.
Addressing the balance between nature and progress, the Chief Minister said that with advancements in science and technology, it is now possible to industrialize using less space and without polluting the environment. He believes that if a proper balance is maintained, environment and industrialization can become complementary to each other rather than contradictory.
Highlighting this year’s theme, Forests and Economy, the Chief Minister explained that forests are crucial not just for the environment but also for the economic development of the state and the country. The government has successfully launched extensive programs to transform forests into a major source of livelihood alongside conservation efforts. He urged the department to take strict action against those responsible for man-made forest fires and stressed the need to prevent human-wildlife conflict.
During the event, the Chief Minister toured a photo exhibition, released books on forest protection, and honored outstanding forest range officers, foresters, and forest guards. Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Shri Ganesharam Singh Khuntia, highlighted the Prime Minister’s focus on the development of rural and forest dwellers, noting that the department is working to create diverse livelihood opportunities for those in tribal-dominated districts so they do not rely solely on forest resources.
Chief Secretary Smt. Anu Garg added that the state has ambitious goals for 2036 and 2047, aiming for significant economic growth and employment. With a target of 25 lakh jobs in the tourism sector, the forest department will play a vital role. She emphasized the need to develop forests as both ecological and economic contributors, pivoting toward a Green Economy.
The program commenced with a welcome address by Principal Secretary Shri Bhaskar Jyoti Sharma and concluded with a vote of thanks by PCCF & HOFF Dr. K. Murugesan. Dr.Murugesan coordinated the entire program, which scripted success.