The Tripura Government is committed towards balancing the
intricate harmony between nature, forests, wildlife, and human life through
action, and fostering employment opportunities through forest creation and the
sustainable utilization of forest resources, asserted Chief Minister Manik Saha.
The CM was attending the closing ceremony of the
State-Level Wildlife Week celebration held at the Joychandpur High School
grounds in Belonia sub-division under South Tripura District.
There he praised the organizers for integrating sports
and painting competitions into the festivities that would enhance students’
understanding of forest and wildlife conservation.
Dr Saha highlighted about Tripura’s abundant forest
resources, with 73 per cent of the State’s land designated as forested, which
were once sanctuaries for diverse wildlife and bird species, although many of
these creatures have since become extinct due to deforestation.
CM Saha stressed upon the need to protect these
invaluable natural assets through the equal efforts of the government as well the
people alike, ensuring both survival and safeguarding the forests and wildlife.
In line with this commitment, the Tripura Government organizes
events such as the Bison Festival, Hornbill Festival, and Migratory Bird
Festival to promote wildlife conservation on yearly basis.
Furthermore, afforestation initiatives have been put
on top list of priorities, creating a double benefit of strengthening the
environment while generating job opportunities through the utilization of
forest resources.
Besides, the CM highlighted the State’s growing
tourism sector, marked by its attractive tourist centers drawing domestic as
well as foreign visitors.
To strengthen this endeavour, former Indian cricket
captain Gaurav Ganguly has been enlisted as the brand ambassador for Tripura’s
tourism development, promoting the State’s tourist destinations.
Educational tours for students to multiple tourist
spots, including the Trishna Sanctuary and Butterfly Park, were encouraged.
CM Saha mentioned the government’s commitment to
modern governance, with the introduction of e-Assembly, e-Cabinet, and
e-Office, all aimed at fostering transparent administration while reducing
waste and saving time. The South Tripura district inaugurated its e-office on
the same occasion.
In recognition of outstanding achievements, the CM presented
prizes to the winners of various competitions.
Additionally, he presented a cheque of Rs 5 lakh to
Kavita, the wife of Haripada Shil, who tragically lost his life in a bison
attack.
CM Saha further inaugurated an e-rickshaw service for
tourists, contributing to the State’s burgeoning tourism infrastructure.
Eminent attendees at the event included Cooperative
Minister Shuklacharan Noatia, MLA Swapna Majumder, MLA Mylaphru Mog, Principal
Secretary of the Forest Department KS Shetty, and other dignitaries.
NE Watch Desk
