CM Yogi Adityanath Attends Aranya Samagam on International Forest Day in Lucknow

Lucknow: CM Yogi Adityanath on participated in the inaugural session of Aranya Samagam—a national forestry dialogue themed “Forests and Economies,” held on the occasion of International Day of Forests in Lucknow. The event brought together policymakers, environmental experts, forest officials, social organizations, and farmers to deliberate on the role of forests in sustainable economic growth and ecological balance.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister felicitated individuals, social organizations, forest department personnel, and progressive farmers who have made notable contributions in mitigating human-wildlife conflict and promoting afforestation efforts across the state. These recognitions highlighted grassroots-level participation and innovative approaches in strengthening forest conservation and biodiversity protection. Additionally, several publications related to wildlife conservation, forestry practices, and the functioning of the forest department were formally released, aiming to spread awareness and knowledge among stakeholders and the general public.

In his address, Yogi Adityanath stressed that the success of any government initiative depends on its transformation into a people’s movement. He underlined that public participation plays a crucial role in achieving long-term environmental goals. Citing the example of Uttar Pradesh, he noted that over the past nine years, the state has undertaken extensive plantation drives and conservation initiatives, resulting in a significant increase in forest cover. He described this achievement as a major step towards ensuring ecological sustainability and promoting green development.

The Chief Minister further emphasized the importance of balancing development with environmental conservation, stating that forests not only contribute to biodiversity but also play a vital role in supporting livelihoods and strengthening the rural economy. He called for continued efforts and collaboration among all stakeholders to address challenges such as human-wildlife conflict and climate change, while ensuring that economic growth remains aligned with environmental protection.

The Aranya Samagam served as a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas on sustainable forestry, conservation strategies, and the integration of forest resources into the broader economic framework, reinforcing the vision of inclusive and environmentally responsible development.