Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar underscored the critical need to strike a harmonious balance between development and conservation at the United Nations Forum on Forests- Country Led Initiative by India. His speech, delivered at the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun, emphasized the importance of ensuring that our forests continue to flourish while simultaneously meeting the development requirements of our citizens.
Dhankhar began by acknowledging the fundamental role forests play in the lives of millions, particularly tribal communities. He stated, "Conservation, though critical and crucial, cannot be isolated from the well-being of communities that rely on forest resources." He stressed that the holistic approach should encompass both forest preservation and the welfare of the people dependent on them.
Highlighting the responsibility of safeguarding the planet for future generations, Dhankhar expressed the need to nurture and preserve biodiversity. He argued that humanity is presently the planet's trustees and cannot afford to compromise the prospects of future generations with reckless exploitation of natural resources.
Sustainable development and combating climate change, according to the Vice President, are essential components of a secure future. He warned that these challenges are of existential significance and underlined that an unsustainable approach to development could endanger the planet's survival.
Drawing a parallel between climate change and the global COVID-19 pandemic, Dhankhar emphasized the gravity of climate change, stating, "Climate change is far more critical and severe than the COVID challenge." He called for international collaboration, likening the necessity for a collective response to the urgency seen during the pandemic.
Vice President Dhankhar recognized the vital role that forests play in absorbing carbon emissions, serving as a critical climate solution. He also highlighted the cultural, spiritual, and intellectual heritage associated with forests, viewing them as more than just a resource.
Dhankhar further addressed the importance of rejuvenating and nurturing village ecosystems, such as "charagah" and ponds, which are crucial to rural life and cattle. He stressed the need to generate awareness among rural communities regarding these critical issues.
The Vice President applauded the successful implementation of the Amrit Sarovar scheme in Amrit Kaal and acknowledged the significance of clean energy in today's global landscape. He committed India to generating half of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, highlighting the National Green Hydrogen Mission as a visionary initiative with potential economic and environmental benefits.
Reflecting on India's impressive economic growth, Dhankhar noted that the nation has risen to become the fifth-largest global economy and predicted India's ascent to the third position by 2030. This, he emphasized, carries the obligation to address global issues that the world currently faces.
Turning his attention to the challenge of forest fires and wildfires, the Vice President acknowledged that even developed countries grapple with this issue. He called for a multi-pronged approach involving technology, awareness generation, and the sustainable management of forests as key steps to mitigate wildfires.
The visit of Vice President to Uttarakhand's spiritual and natural wonders reaffirmed the profound importance of preserving our environment and heritage for the well-being of all living beings on Earth.
