Bhubaneswar, Aug 5: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday attended the State-Level Forest Officers’ Conference at Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Centre here and emphasized the need for sensitive and inclusive forest governance.

Speaking on the occasion, the CM Majhi urged the Forest officials to engage empathetically with tribal and marginalized communities while enforcing forest protection laws.

Highlighting the importance of coexistence, the Chief Minister advised cultivating elephant fodder like paddy in vacant forest areas to reduce human-elephant conflict. He also stressed planting fruit- and flower-bearing trees in populated regions to encourage community care and enhance green cover.

CM Majhi reminded officers that nearly one-fourth of Odisha’s population belongs to tribal communities who reside in and around forest areas. “Creating conflict-free coexistence and ensuring their safety is a moral responsibility of the government,” he said.

The Chief Minister also called for transparency and integrity, warning officers to stay away from corruption. “The current government follows a zero-tolerance policy against corruption. Officers must uphold this principle,” he stated.

Addressing the officials, Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia described the department as the lifeline of society and emphasized its role in preserving ecological balance.

On his part, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja highlighted Odisha’s rich biodiversity and called for awareness among forest-dwelling communities about conservation and livelihood enhancement.

A tripartite MoU was signed between the Regional Plant Resource Centre, Horticulture Department, and Odisha State Seed Corporation to supply high-quality fruit saplings to farmers at affordable rates.

The conference also showcased a short documentary on forest conservation achievements and honored grassroots efforts, including the commendable work of Pramila Pradhan from Keonjhar district.

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