Udupi: We need to save and grow the forests for the benefit of our future generation, said district Deputy Commissioner G Jagadeesh.
He was speaking on the occasion of a tree planting programme held at the Badagabettu “Saalu Mara Thimmakka botanical garden”, organised by the Karnataka Forest Department Kundapur Division, Udupi District Working Journalists Association and Press Club.
“In recent times, the forests have been declining and forest protection has been the key to improving it. In particular, students must plant and grow a large number of plants, saving the wealth of plants, animals and birds for the next generation,” he said and instructed the forest department officials to build an information centre so that everyone can learn about the wildlife in the area.
Kamala K Matanady, Deputy Forest Conservator of the Kundapur Division said that the only source for forest life is the forest itself. She said that students should volunteer to protect the forest wealth given by their ancestors and in turn, give them as gifts to the next generation.
Chief forest conservation officer of the Forest Department, Punit Pathak, said that the protection of the trees and plants is essential and today’s generation must be involved in the planting of trees.
Secretary of the Udupi District Working Journalists Association Santosh Sarlabettu said that the students in the district are interested in the protection of wildlife and that they should be involved in planting.
Professional artist Purushottam Advay was felicitated on the occasion. Ganesh Kundapura, who heads a children’s home, was also felicitated.
Prizes were also awarded for the short drama show, as well as, to the contest winners from various colleges.
Baskets made by children trained at the children’s home were sold at discounted prices.
Udupi Zone Forest Officer Clifford Lobo welcomed the gathering. Nagaraj Rao convener of Udupi Press Club delivered the vote of thanks.
District panchayat CEO Preeti Gehlot, Kundapur zonal assistant forest conservation officer Lohit and students of various colleges were present.
