Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan. File | Photo credit: NAGARA GOPAL
Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Forests and Environment K. Pawan Kalyan emphasized that forests are a national treasure and every inch of forest land is priceless and highlighted the Andhra Pradesh government’s commitment to protect forests and enhance biodiversity.
Addressing a state-wide two-day workshop for forest officials on the premises of the National Disaster Management Authority at Kondapavulur in Krishna district on Friday, Mr. Pawan Kalyan said that no individual or political influence will be allowed to compromise the forest land.
“Interference will not be tolerated. Forests are national property and their protection is a collective responsibility,” he said.
Mr. Pawan Kalyan outlined several initiatives, including large-scale sowing of red sandalwood seeds in Seshachalam forests, aimed at reviving endangered species and creating economic value for the state. Measures were also underway to curb smuggling and recover illegally transported red sandalwood from other states.
Forests must be developed as a revenue generating department that provides livelihood for tribal youth and promotes eco-tourism in a sustainable manner, he said.
Mr. Pawan Kalyan also addressed the challenges of wood and plantations related to handicrafts and led efforts to expand the cultivation of trees essential for traditional handicrafts such as Kondapalli toys and Etikoppaka products.
He called for systematic management to prevent human-wildlife conflicts, especially in border areas like Chittoor, Parvathipuram-Manyam and Srikakulam, where elephant movements affect agricultural areas.
Mr. Pawan Kalyan stressed on the safety and welfare of the forest personnel and emphasized on full government support, zero tolerance for harassment or assault on officials and transparent recruitment processes.
The workshop included detailed briefings on forest conservation strategies, biodiversity enhancement and coordination with other departments for effective implementation.
The main focus of the workshop was the ‘Great Green Wall of Andhra Pradesh’, stretching 974 km along the coast from Srikakulam to Nellore.
The initiative involves planting palm, palmyra and other coastal species to restore degraded areas, protect against cyclones and tsunamis, preserve marine biodiversity and provide a green buffer for coastal-dependent communities.
Officials were urged to integrate afforestation with designated areas and other state lands to achieve 50% green coverage by 2047, with active public participation.
Published – 24 Oct 2025 20:31 IST
