15-02-2026:Governor Addresses ‘Sanjay Singh Memorial Lecture’ at Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy.
Lok Bhavan Uttarakhand-Information Wing
Press Note
Sustainable Forest Conservation Possible Only Through Public Participation and Ethical Leadership: Governor
Governor Addresses ‘Sanjay Singh Memorial Lecture’ at Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy
Calls Upon Forest Officers to Adopt Corruption-Free, Sensitive and Innovation-Driven Work Culture
Lok Bhavan Dehradun 15 February, 2026
Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.) stated that conservation, regeneration and sustainable management of forests are not possible without active public participation. He emphasised that engaging and empowering local communities residing in forest areas is a fundamental responsibility of the Forest Service. Forest officers, he said, must work with sensitivity and strive to connect local people with self-employment opportunities and skill development initiatives. He urged officers to regard wildlife and nature as integral members of their own family while discharging their duties.
The Governor was addressing the Sanjay Singh Memorial Lecture at Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy on Sunday. Speaking to the Indian Forest Service officers of the 2025 batch, he advised them to pay special attention to the welfare of forest personnel working under them, including their families’ education, healthcare, housing, insurance and skill development. He underlined that the responsibility of an officer extends beyond administrative functions to improving the overall quality of life of their subordinates.
Recalling the courage, valour, integrity and dedication of Late Sanjay Singh, an officer of the Indian Forest Service, the Governor said that his supreme sacrifice in the line of duty will continue to inspire generations to come. He described such officers as invaluable national assets whose ideals will guide every member of the Forest Service.
Highlighting the importance of ethical values and transparency in public service, the Governor called upon officers to remain vigilant against corruption. He observed that an officer’s reputation is built over years but can be destroyed by a single wrong decision. He urged them to perform their duties with administrative competence, moral courage and sensitivity.
The Governor further noted that the Forest Service today faces serious challenges such as illegal mining, encroachment, forest fires and human-wildlife coexistence issues. These challenges, he said, can be addressed through the effective use of technology, innovation and a humane approach. He also stressed the promotion of eco-tourism and forest-based livelihoods to strengthen the economic resilience of local communities.
On the occasion, the Governor honoured Shri Ghanshyam Narayan Singh and Smt. Kanti, father and mother of Late Sanjay Singh, by presenting them with shawls as a mark of respect. He also felicitated officers of the 2025 batch for outstanding performance during their training.
The programme was attended by the Director of the Academy, Mrs. Bharati; PCCF (HoFF), Uttarakhand, Shri Ranjan Kumar Mishra; other senior officials of the Academy; and trainee officers.
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