National Forest Martyrs’ Day– 2025: Forest Minister Pays Flowing Tributes To Martyrs ;Upcoming ecotourism park and other infrastructure to be named in their memory

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

SRINAGAR SEPTEMBER 11:-The Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, Departments, Javed Ahmad Rana today paid rich tributes to the martyrs of the Forest Department who laid down their lives while protecting J&K’s green wealth.

Presiding over the National Forest Martyrs’ Day– 2025 function at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, as Chief Guest, the Minister acknowledged the unwavering commitment and supreme sacrifices of forest personnel in safeguarding the region’s precious natural resources.

The event was organised by the J&K Forest Department to commemorate National Forest Martyrs’ Day and honour the courage and dedication of forest officials and frontline staff who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty while protecting forests and wildlife.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Rana said the sacrifice of these martyrs is a testament to their dedication to preserving our natural heritage for future generations.

“The supreme sacrifices made by our brave forest personnel will always be remembered. We must all feel proud of those who laid down their lives for the cause of protecting nature,” he said.

He emphasized that forests are the lungs of the planet, and the green guardians who protect them are real heroes.

“It is our collective duty to ensure their sacrifice does not go in vain and to continue their mission with renewed commitment,” Minister said.

Emphasising the importance of natural resources, the Minister said that the survival of humankind depends on forests and water. “The world simply cannot sustain without them.”

Encouraging the department to continue its mission, the Minister said that efforts are on to further strengthen the department and enhance facilities for all staff engaged in protecting our natural resources.

Announcing key initiatives, the Minister said a new roadmap is being prepared to restore the lost glory of the Forest Department, with plans to develop an ecotourism park and other infrastructure in memory of the martyrs. He also announced the introduction of group insurance facilities for employees.

The Conservator of Forests, North Circle, Irfan Ali Shah (IFS) delivered the welcome address, highlighting the challenges faced by frontline staff and reiterating the department’s commitment to their welfare and safety.

The event also featured speeches by representatives of forest associations and organisations, who underlined the crucial role of forest officials in conservation and the sacrifices they make. On the occasion, a publication titled “Green Hearts” was released.

As part of the commemoration, the Minister felicitated family members of the martyrs for their sacrifices.

Earlier in the day, a tribute ceremony was held at the Forest Martyrs Memorial, Shankaracharya Hill, Srinagar, where a floral wreath was laid in honour of the martyrs.

In Jammu, the day was observed at the Foresters Memorial, FRMC (ICT Lab), Narwal, with wreath-laying ceremonies by forest officers and staff. Similar observances were held across the J&K, including at memorials at Shankaracharya Hills and the Kashmir Forest Training School, Chitternar.

The ceremony was attended by Ms. Sheetal Nanda (IAS), Commissioner/Secretary, Department of Forest Ecology & Environment; Shri Suresh Kumar Gupta (IFS), PCCF & Head of Forest Force; MD J&K Forest Development Corporation; CCFs, Conservators, DFOs, Range Officers, Foresters, Forest Guards, representatives of various forest organisations, families of martyrs, environmental activists, government officials, and members of the media.