On the occasion of the International Day of Forests, we reaffirm our collective commitment to the protection and sustainable management of forests. This year’s theme, ‘Forests and Economies,’ underscores the vital contribution of forests to ecological stability, economic resilience and the well-being of communities.
Forests play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by conserving soil and water resources, sequestering carbon and purifying the air we breathe. The islands, endowed with dense tropical vegetation and a rich diversity of endemic flora and fauna, derive immense ecological and economic benefits form their forests. These ecosystems provide essential services and support sustainable livelihoods through non-timber forest produce, eco-tourism and other nature-based opportunities.
Nature has generously blessed these Islands with abundant forest resources. It is therefore our collective responsibility to preserve, protect and manage this invaluable natural heritage with foresight and care, ensuring its continuity for future generations.
On this significant occasion, I call upon the people of these Islands to recognize the immense value of forests, including trees outside traditional forest areas and to actively participate in spreading awareness and strengthening our shared resolve to conserve and restore our rich biodiversity.
Let us reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding our forest-our green heritage for a sustainable and prosperous future.
Sd/-
(Admiral D.K. Joshi)
PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.)
Lieutenant Governor, A&N Islands
&
Vice Chairman, Islands Development Agency
