Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 22: The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre, organized a commemorative event to observe the International Day of Forests at its campus. The event focused on the critical role of forest conservation in maintaining ecological balance and national economic health.
Dr. P. Prakash Babu, Vice Chancellor of Pondicherry University, graced the occasion as the chief guest. In his keynote address, Dr. Babu underscored the inextricable link between a country’s forest cover and its economic resilience. He warned that deforestation is a primary driver of economic instability, affecting both local livelihoods and national productivity. The Vice Chancellor noted that the region’s marine and forest ecosystems are the backbone of its flourishing tourism industry.
As part of the celebrations, a drawing competition was conducted by the ZSI for local school students to foster environmental awareness. Dignitaries distributed certificates and mementos to the winners, encouraging the younger generation to become ambassadors for conservation. The event saw the participation of eminent scientists and others.
