Role of Forest Personnel in Fostering Human–Wildlife Coexistence is Commendable: CM Dr. Yadav

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav lauded the activities and progress of the State Forest Department, stating that the reintroduction of cheetahs in Kuno National Park was made possible due to the department’s professional competence. He described the experience of releasing gharials in the Chambal and facilitating the free movement of crocodiles in the Narmada River as a significant conservation achievement. The Chief Minister stated that nurturing a spirit of coexistence among forests, wildlife and local communities has been achieved through the dedicated services of the Forest Department. The State Government is also making efforts to bring wildlife from Assam. Water bodies in the state play a significant role in wildlife conservation and the Forest Department’s activities span across air, land and water alike.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav stated that the IFS Meet is not only a forum for professional dialogue but also an opportunity to strengthen familial bonds and collegial cooperation. The Chief Minister addressed the inaugural session of the Forestry Conference and Indian Forest Service (IFS) Meet–2026 on Friday at RCVP Noronha Academy of Administration. He also released the Forest Department’s IFS theme song and its video.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award–2026 on retired Indian Forest Service officer and former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Shri P. B. Gangopadhyay, in recognition of his contribution to the protection and improvement of the state’s forests. The award was received on his behalf by his wife, Smt. Gauri Gangopadhyay. Forest and Environment Minister of State Shri Dilip Singh Ahirwar, Additional Chief Secretary Shri Ashok Barnwal and senior forest officers were present.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that organising IAS, IPS and now IFS meets in the state is a commendable initiative. Such platforms enable serving officers to learn from their seniors. He highlighted India’s deep cultural bond with forests, noting that in the Sanatan tradition, after the householder stage, the Vanaprastha stage underscores the importance of forests.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that forest officers and staff also serve as guides and support systems for rural families living in and around forest areas. The department ensures essential facilities for forest villages. He termed the initiative of installing fencing between core areas and buffer zones of national sanctuaries as praiseworthy, as it enhances safety for both wildlife and local residents. The State Government, he assured, is making every possible effort for the welfare of Forest Department personnel.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force Shri V. N. Ambade said that under the Aviral Narmada scheme initiated by Chief Minister Dr. Yadav, river rejuvenation and plantation works are being undertaken over more than 5,000 hectares in the Narmada basin. He noted that the previous year was significant for the Forest Department in terms of community participation, with over five crore saplings planted annually. He stated that Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary has been declared a Tiger Reserve named after Shri Vishnu Shridhar Wakankar. In the coming years, special emphasis will be placed on forest conservation and plantations. He also mentioned that Forest Guard Jagdish Ahirwar was appreciated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in the ‘Mann Ki Baat’ Broadcast for documenting 125 rare medicinal plants. Efforts to link environmental protection with community participation are ongoing, and the forests of Madhya Pradesh are a national heritage.

A group photograph of Chief Minister Dr. Yadav with Indian Forest Service officers was also taken on this occasion.