23-06-2026:Address of Hon’ble Governor on the Occasion of the “Prakriti Ke Prahari” Forest Personnel Felicitation and Book Release Ceremony

Jai Hind!

A very warm welcome to all of you to the historic Lok Bhavan in Nainital—the city of lakes and the pinnacle of natural beauty on the sacred land of Uttarakhand.

Uttarakhand is a divine land where every particle is imbued with the presence of Lord Shiva, where rivers are the lifelines of millions, and where towering trees stand like sages immersed in centuries of meditation. It is a matter of great pride and happiness for me to be among the brave guardians dedicated to the protection of our forests and wildlife on this sacred soil.

Today’s event is a tribute to the very soul of Devbhoomi. I salute all the forest personnel being honoured today on behalf of the entire state. You are not merely employees; you are the true protectors of this land and the soldiers of nature.

Whether it is raging forest fires during scorching summers or landslides caused by torrential rains, you continue to safeguard forests and wildlife without concern for your own safety. Your sacrifice, dedication, and perseverance keep Uttarakhand’s green consciousness alive. This recognition is a symbol of the State’s gratitude for your indomitable courage and selfless service.

On this auspicious occasion, I have also had the privilege of releasing several important books. Among them, Rajaji Mein Poornima Ki Yeh Raat holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the unforgettable moments I experienced last year in Rajaji National Park, where I had the opportunity to connect closely with nature.

That forest bathed in the silvery light of the full moon was not merely a sight to behold; it was an encounter with nature’s immense power, serenity, and mysterious beauty. In that profound silence, I felt that wildlife too has its own world, language, and discipline.

Every page of this book sensitively captures Rajaji’s rich biodiversity, the unparalleled beauty of nature, and the spiritual bond that exists between humanity and the natural world. I am confident that it will inspire readers to develop a deeper sense of empathy, affection, and responsibility towards environmental conservation.

Alongside this, books such as Common Birds of Almora and Nainital, From Roots to Riches, and Beehive Fencing have also been released. These publications represent a remarkable confluence of knowledge, livelihoods, and innovation.

The book on birds highlights the extraordinary biodiversity of the valleys of Almora and Nainital. From Roots to Riches conveys the message that forest conservation and livelihood enhancement can complement one another. The medicinal plants, forest produce, and local resources of our mountains can create new opportunities for self-employment, particularly for youth and women.

Human-wildlife conflict remains a significant challenge today. In this context, scientific initiatives such as Beehive Fencing offer a ray of hope. Besides being environmentally friendly, this technique can also help increase farmers’ incomes through beekeeping. These books are undoubtedly a testament to the foresight and innovation of our scientists, researchers, and the Forest Department.

Brothers and Sisters,

In Indian culture, forests have never been viewed merely as natural resources; they have been revered as manifestations of the divine. Our Sanatan tradition is deeply rooted in forest culture. The Vedas and Upanishads were composed in the tranquil embrace of forests. Our scriptures regard trees as life-givers and as the foundation of consciousness itself.

The Matsya Purana states that one tree is equal to ten sons. This is not merely a religious statement but a profound philosophy that underscores the significance of nature. Trees provide us with oxygen, water, shade, medicine, and life itself.

Forests are not merely clusters of trees; they are the custodians of our civilization. Our water sources, rivers, climate, and ecological balance all depend upon them. Therefore, forest conservation is not just an administrative obligation but a moral and cultural responsibility.

Along with forests, the existence of wildlife is equally important. Every living being has a role to play in the vast web of nature. The Yajurveda prays for peace and harmony throughout creation:

Om Dyauh Shantirantariksham Shantih,
Prithvi Shantirapah Shantiraushadhayah Shantih.
Vanaspatayah Shantirvishwe Devah Shantirbrahma Shantih,
Sarvam Shantih Shantireva Shantih Sa Ma Shantiredhi.
Om Shantih Shantih Shantih.

The essence of this prayer is that the sky, earth, water, medicinal herbs, and vegetation remain balanced and protected. If biodiversity is destroyed, nature’s balance will be disrupted, and humanity will inevitably suffer the consequences.

At a time when the entire world is grappling with climate change and global warming, Uttarakhand’s role becomes even more significant. Our forests are not merely the heritage of the state; they are the life-giving lungs of northern India. The glaciers, rivers, and forests of Uttarakhand sustain millions of lives.

Nearly 71 percent of Uttarakhand’s geographical area is under forest cover. This is not just a statistic; it is a reflection of our rich natural heritage. The state’s national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation areas stand as living symbols of its biodiversity.

This is the very land that gave the world the historic Chipko Movement. Gaura Devi and her fellow women embraced trees to convey a powerful message—that nature conservation is not solely the responsibility of governments but a collective responsibility of society. Their inspiring contribution continues to guide us even today.

Addressing challenges such as forest fires and enhancing our green wealth remain among our highest priorities. The efforts being undertaken by the Forest Department through technology, innovation, and public participation are highly commendable.

Environmental conservation cannot be the sole responsibility of the Forest Department. It must become a people’s movement. Unless every citizen and every visitor develops sensitivity towards nature, our conservation goals cannot be fully achieved.

The “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi embodies this spirit of public participation. We must instill in our younger generations, from an early age, a sense of love, responsibility, and respect for nature, water, and trees.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the authors of these books, the researchers, and the entire team of the Forest Department. I also convey my best wishes to all the forest personnel being honoured today for a bright, safe, and successful future.

The existence of humanity and nature is inseparable. If nature is secure, our future is secure. The vision of a developed India and a developed Uttarakhand can only be realized when development and environmental conservation move forward together.

Let us take a pledge today from this sacred land of Nainital that we will protect our forests, wildlife, and green wealth as dearly as we protect our own lives, so that Uttarakhand may always remain green, prosperous, and secure.

We are not the masters of nature; we are its custodians. This is our greatest responsibility towards future generations.

Let us regard nature conservation not merely as a duty, but as a sacred obligation to those who will inherit this planet after us.

May the eternal wisdom of our sages continue to guide us:

“Vriksho Rakshati Rakshitah” — Protect the trees, and the trees will protect you.

Vande Mataram!
Bharat Mata Ki Jai!
Jai Hind!