Hyderabad: Telangana marked Forest Martyrs Day to pay tribute to the forest staff who have lost their lives protecting the state’s forests and wildlife on September 11. The day also remembers the 360 members of the Bishnoi community in Rajasthan who, in 1730, sacrificed their lives defending Khejri trees.Since 1984, 22 forest officers in Telangana have lost their lives while protecting forests and wildlife. Their dedication ensures that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty of the state. Between 2014-15 and 2023-24, forest staff have managed numerous cases, including seizing timber worth Rs 58.64 crore and collecting a compounding fee of Rs 128.94 crore. They have also registered 28,221 cases of timber theft and 8,185 encroachment cases. Unfortunately, from 2018 to 2024, 44 incidents of assault on forest staff resulted in injuries to 58 personnel.Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy highlighted the need for sustainable development to address environmental challenges in his message. He praised the Vanamahotsava Programme for its role in increasing the state’s forest cover to 33 per cent annually and highlighted the invaluable contributions of forest department staff and also called for everyone to support the programme and pledge to protect and enhance the state’s green cover.Reflecting on the tragic event of September 11, 1730, where 300 people sacrificed their lives in Rajasthan to protect trees, the Chief Minister justified the ongoing need to safeguard forests and wildlife. The Chief Minister urged all to honor the sacrifices of forest personnel and commit to the cause of forest protection and development.
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