Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that forests are intrinsically linked to livelihoods. Tribal areas are endowed with rich forest resources, and their management must ensure that the interests of tribal communities are not adversely affected by development. Indian lifestyle has always been forest-centric, and freeing forest management from colonial thinking is essential.
He said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has paved the way for progress by integrating heritage with development and achieving harmony between nature and development. The PESA Act is a significant step in this direction. Dr. Yadav emphasised that the joy of life lies in holistic living, and nature-based living can automatically solve many problems.
The Chief Minister spoke at the inaugural session of a national workshop on forest restoration, climate change, and community-based livelihood in tribal areas at the Academy of Administration. Along with Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav, the Chief Minister inaugurated the workshop by lighting a ceremonial lamp and offering floral tributes to Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Veerangana Rani Durgavati. Also present were State Women and Child Development Minister Sushri Nirmala Bhuria and Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Shri Durgadas Uikey.