By Our Correspondent
NEW DELHI/BHUBANESWAR: Union PNG-Steel Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in his regular facebook post, was on Wednesday said that due to dedicated afforestation activities, Odisha has witnessed rapid increase in forest cover.
“Union Government has given unprecedented support in the enhancement of green cover in Odisha. ₹5933.98 cr. was sanctioned to Odisha under #CAMPA funds for promoting afforestation in the state.India has been championing climate action based on the values of conservation, sustainable lifestyle and building a green economy model. #ModiGovt firmly believes in the path of sustainable development and is ensuring that growth happens without harming the environment,” Pradhan wrote.
“Odisha is blessed with abundant natural beauty and is one of the major biodiversity hotspots in eastern India. Simlipal biosphere reserve, Gandhamardan hill, lagoons of Chilika, Bhitarkanika and Deomali hill, among several others are home to more than 2700 species. With a wide range of biodiversity on display, Odisha has the prowess to become the epicentre of ecological tourism in the country. Dedicated efforts for preserving biodiversity will further help in promoting tourism in Odisha,” Pradhan wrote.
“Riverine ecosystems are vital indicators of ecological health. #ProjectDolphin announced by PM Narendra Modi will further revitalise efforts of conserving marine ecosystems and will be a boon to Irrawaddy dolphins and Olive Ridley turtles in Odisha. Conservation of wildlife and co-existence has been a part of the cultural ethos of India,” he said.
“Government under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi ji has been sensitive towards the preservation of our biodiversity and has been unwavering in its commitment to nurture and promote it.Blessed with rich flora and fauna, India accounts for around 7-8% of the world’s known bio-diversity. India is signatory to several major international conventions regarding conservation, management and protection of wildlife and bio-diversity.#ProjectTiger has been a massive success story, with India having the distinction of doubling the number of tigers in two years. We have been making continuous efforts with focus on protecting our wetlands as well as endangered species,” he added.
