Latest news with #ForestandWildlifedepartment
The Hindu
29-05-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Wildlife laws by Indira Gandhi govt. obstacle to addressing human-animal conflicts: CM
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday said instances of human-animal conflict were on the rise in the State, but a major hurdle in dealing with the issue were the wildlife laws enacted by the Congress government led by Indira Gandhi. Mr. Vijayan, at a press conference here, contended that the State government was taking all possible steps to address the increasing instances of human-animal conflict, which requires a permanent solution in view of the loss of lives and property caused by it. He said the Forest and Wildlife department had been asked to initiate steps for securing permission from the Central government for the killing of wild boars and other wild animals that posed a threat to human life and property. The Forest Secretary had been tasked to submit a proposal for the necessary legislation in this regard in consultation with the Law Secretary, he added. 'However, some are blaming the State government for such instances with the political aim to mislead the people. Such persons are not ready to examine the facts — that it is the Central laws which are a major hurdle in dealing with the matter.' 'Everyone knows that these wildlife laws were brought during the tenure of the Congress government at the Centre under Indira Gandhi in 1972,' he said. He was referring to the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 which had been enacted for the protection of plant and animal species across India. He said the laws passed by Parliament cannot be amended by the State government and had to be changed by the Centre. He claimed that the State government had made several requests for amendment to the wildlife laws, but no steps had been taken till now. Mr. Vijayan also said the guidelines issued by the Central government and the National Tiger Conservation Authority to deal with tigers and elephants that encroached on populated areas were 'completely impractical'.
Hans India
24-05-2025
- Hans India
CM Yogi's green vision: Uttar Pradesh on track to become eco-tourism hotspot
Lucknow: In line with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's vision, the Forest and Wildlife Department of Uttar Pradesh is actively transforming the state into a hub of eco-tourism. Significantly, the department is working to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of Uttar Pradesh, while launching new initiatives to promote sustainable tourism. One such initiative is the 'Buffer Mein Safar' (journey through the buffer zones) scheme. This scheme aims to ramp up tourist experiences in the buffer zones of tiger reserves across the state. As part of what is being seen as a big initiative, new safari routes are being developed in the buffer zones of Dudhwa, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, and North Kheri. Areas such as Bhira and Mohammadi are being explored for new eco-tourism opportunities. The Forest and Wildlife department is also imparting training to residents so as to serve as guides, restaurant operators, and other tourism-related roles. This is how the department is aiming to promote local employment and skill development. The initiative is already showing positive results, with a significant rise in the number of eco-tourism visitors to the state in recent years. Tourists will now be able to enjoy safaris even during the monsoon season, as tiger reserves are being kept open for longer periods. In addition to the existing tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries, the Forest and Wildlife Department is also expanding eco-tourism prospects to new locations. In southern Kheri, tourist circuits have been developed in Gola, Mohammadi Range, and Bhira. The Semrai Lake, a known habitat for migratory birds, is also being included in the tourism circuit for birdwatching and nature excursions. Furthermore, jungle safaris have been initiated in the buffer zone of Katarniaghat, which lies close to the Nepal border. With its natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and abundance of wildlife, the area is expected to become a major attraction for tourists seeking an immersive nature experience. To support these efforts, a modern information centre has been established in the Dudhwa tourism complex. This centre will provide insights into local biodiversity, wildlife, and culture, as well as raise awareness about environmental conservation. Training programmes for nature guides, canteen staff, and cooks are also being conducted to ensure high-quality services for tourists. These initiatives are not only enhancing the skill sets of local youth but are also generating new employment and income opportunities. With sustained efforts and visionary leadership, Uttar Pradesh is steadily positioning itself as a leading eco-tourism destination both nationally and globally.
The Hindu
04-05-2025
- The Hindu
Forest department pavilion offers variety tribal fare at ‘Ente Keralam' expo in Idukki
Have you ever tasted Naruneendi (Indian sarsaparilla) tea, butter beans momos and ragi leddu? The Forest and Wildlife department's pavilion at the 'Ente Keralam' expo, which is underway at Vazhathope Government Vocational Higher Secondary School ground in Idukki, offers the public a chance to enjoy the taste of various types of delicious tribal food items. According to officials, the stall is witnessing a rush of visitors looking to taste these delicacies. The expo marks the fourth anniversary of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government in the State. The Munnar wildlife division and the Chinnar wildlife sanctuary has partnered to set up the pavilion, officials stated. The Naruneedi tea on offer is a traditional drink among tribal communities, and butter beans are cultivated inside the forests; the butter bean momos are another offering that is attracting visitors. Also on sale at the pavilion is chama rice payasam (millet payasam), bamboo rice payasam (mulayari payasam), ragi leddu, and ragi milk. Tapioca, colocasia, sweet potato, purple yam, ragi vada, bird's-eye chilli chutney, fish curry, and butter bean chicken curry are also put up. Various items made from forest produce, such as honey, lemon grass oil, ragi powder, turmeric, sherbet, Marayur jaggery, ginger tea powder, and veld grape pickles, are also available at the pavilion. Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine inaugurated the exhibition on April 29. The expo will conclude on May 5.
