Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav inaugurated the Forestry Conference and IFS Meet 2026 at the RCVP Noronha Administrative Academy, emphasising the State’s commitment to forest conservation, wildlife protection, and sustainable development. During the event, he presented the Lifetime Achievement Award 2026 to former PCCF Dr P B Gangopadhyay for his remarkable contributions to Madhya Pradesh’s forests. The award was received by his wife, Gauri Gangopadhyay, on his behalf. Dr Yadav also launched the IFS theme song and its accompanying video, celebrating the work of forest officials and fostering a sense of camaraderie and professional dialogue within the department. He praised the department’s achievements, including the reintroduction of cheetahs in Kuno National Park, the release of gharial in Chambal, and crocodiles in the Narmada River, highlighting the importance of coexistence between wildlife and local communities.

 

The Chief Minister noted that forest officers not only protect the state’s biodiversity but also act as guides and support systems for villages near forest areas, ensuring access to essential facilities. He lauded initiatives such as core-area and buffer-zone fencing in national reserves, which safeguard both wildlife and human populations. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force V N Ambade highlighted ongoing projects, including the Aviral Narmada Project, which has restored and replanted over 5,000 hectares in the Narmada basin. Last year, the Forest Department planted more than 50 million trees, and the Ratapani Sanctuary was declared a tiger reserve in honour of Dr Vishnudhar Wakankar. The Chief Minister emphasised the role of such conferences in knowledge sharing and mentoring, noting that these gatherings allow junior officers to learn from their seniors and strengthen collaborative ties.

 

He also underlined the cultural and spiritual significance of forests in India, referencing the Vanaprastha ashram stage in traditional life, which highlights the importance of forests in society. The event also recognised the work of forest personnel such as Forest Guard Jagdish Ahirwar, who collected 125 rare medicinal plants, a contribution appreciated nationally, including by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme.