Gadag
Forest conservators are the real pioneers of the country’s greenery, said Additional District and Sessions Judge MC Gangadhar during the National Forest Martyrs’ Day programme held on Thursday at the Saalu Marada Thimmakka Botanical Garden in Binkadakatti.
Speaking as the guest of honour, Justice Gangadhar paid tribute to the Karnataka Forest Department martyrs who sacrificed their lives to protect the nation’s forest wealth. “Their sacrifice is a loss to the country, and we should be grateful to all those who work tirelessly for forest conservation,” he said. He emphasized that protecting natural wealth is the responsibility of everyone, not just the forest officials, and highlighted the importance of stopping illegal hunting to safeguard wildlife.
Deputy Commissioner CN Sridhar addressed the gathering, noting that environmental disasters today are largely due to human negligence and greed. “Everything except humans is considered the environment. Our excessive exploitation has caused damage and disturbed the balance of nature,” he said.
Deputy Conservator of Forests Santoshkumar Kenchappa also spoke on the occasion, underscoring the role of forest officers in conserving ecological balance.
Additional Superintendent of Police Mahantesh Sajjanara, Sub-Divisional Officer Gangappa M, Social Deputy Conservator of Forests Dr. Chandrahas Vernekar, Information Officer Vasantha Madlur, and other officers participated in the programme.
Justice Gangadhar concluded by urging citizens to actively participate in protecting forests and wildlife. “Today is not just a day to remember the martyrs; it is a day for all of us to take responsibility for environmental protection and preserve the greenery for future generations,” he said.
