Expressing concern over the decline in forest area and vanishing tree species in the State, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar lal on Tuesday exhorted the people to plant atleast one sapling each to keep the environment clean, maintain ecological balance and contribute in promotion of our ancient culture and traditions.
Manohar lal was speaking at a function organized to mark the celebration of state level wildlife week at Bir Bara Van, after inaugurating the nature park set up over an area of 15 acres at a cost of Rs 40 lakh at Jind.
The Chief Minister said that as a result of increasing population and expansion of industries, pollution is increasing continuously. In these circumstances, we could only protect the human life and keep our society clean by planting maximum saplings, he added.
He said that the present State Government has taken a number of steps for the conservation of various species that are at the verge of extinction.
While referring to the species of vulture, he said that a Centre has been set up at Pinjore in district Panchkula for the conservation of species of vultures. Similarly, the Government has also set up centres for the conservation of wild Red Jungle fowl and peacock. In these centres, conservation of those breeds would be done which are at the verge of extinction, he added.
The Chief Minister said that plants, birds and animals assume special significance in our day-to-day life as these are worshiped on special occasions. Prayers are offered to Peepal tree and Tulsi, he said.
“As a result of shrinking of forest area, the climate is undergoing several peculiar changes. Therefore, conservation of nature and wild life is a daunting task before us,” the Chief Minister said.
He also lauded the role of Swami Ramdev, who is Haryana’s brand ambassador for yoga and ayurveda, saying that he has immensely helped the people in maintaining good health by preparing various medicines from plants and herbs.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister also released a booklet of annual report published by Haryana Forest Development Corporation. He also flagged off a cycle rally of girl guides from the park complex.
Apart from this, the Chief Minister also went around the exhibition put up by the Forest Department highlighting the efforts made for the conservation of wild life and forests.
Speaking on this occasion, Forest Minister Rao Narbir Singh said that in Navratras, the wildlife assumes a special significance in our culture and called upon the people to make collective efforts for maintaining a balanced environment and preserve this precious heritage of nature by conserving the wildlife.