Communities Mark World Forest Day by Worshipping Trees and Pledging to Protect Forest Ecosystems

Gania,April 04: To promote environmental protection and safeguard forests, land, and water, World Forest Day is observed every year on March 21. On this occasion, the festival was celebrated at the mango grove area of Gochhabari village by the Adim Adivasi Mukti Manch of Badashilinga Panchayat and the Dasapalla Communication Organization.
The program began with devotional chanting (Naam Sankirtan) by the villagers of Gochhabari, followed by the worship of sal and mango trees in the nearby forest.
Later, an awareness meeting was held under the अध्यक्षता (chairmanship) of Ramachandra Malik from the Badashilinga area. Environmentalist and former Chairman of Gania Block, Antaryami Mishra, attended as the chief speaker. Among the distinguished guests were Forest Guard Somanath Parida of Badashilinga, Forest Guard Biswajit of Ghugudipada, environmentalists Prafulla Mishra, Santosh Kumar Pradhan, Pratap Kumar Rout, teacher Bhimasen Malik, and Maguni Kahar.
The speakers held detailed discussions on the protection of forests, land, and water. They highlighted that the continuous depletion of forests is already causing serious problems for human society, as seen in various parts of the world.
Special emphasis was given on preventing forest fires, especially during the ongoing summer season. The guests warned that forest fires destroy small and large trees, medicinal plants, wildlife, and reptiles.
They urged people to protect forests, avoid setting fires, and sustain their livelihoods by responsibly collecting forest produce. It was emphasized that protecting forests ultimately ensures the survival of human society.
On this occasion, the guests and local residents took a pledge to protect forests and wildlife. Later, environmentalists and media representatives were honored with traditional shawls by the local community.