New Delhi: Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Tuesday described forest officers as the “voice of the voiceless flora and fauna” while addressing participants of the Mid-Career Training Programme of the Indian Forest Service in New Delhi.
Union Minister of State for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh and senior ministry officials attended the programme.
Bhupender Yadav said India’s path towards Viksit Bharat depended on achieving the goal of Harit Bharat. He added that forest officers carried lifelong responsibility towards environmental protection even after retirement.
Further, he announced that India would host the first International Big Cat Alliance Summit in the first week of June. Around 95 countries and international organisations are expected to participate in the summit.
During the interactive session, the Union Minister discussed wildlife protection, forest governance and climate action. He also spoke about India’s progress in meeting climate targets ahead of schedule.
Forest officers discuss wildlife and climate action
Bhupender Yadav highlighted cheetah conservation efforts and protection measures for the Great Indian Bustard through artificial incubation. He also explained the role of tiger reserves in sustaining river ecosystems.
Moreover, he stressed the importance of balancing conservation priorities with development needs. He said advanced technologies were helping improve environmental management and wildlife governance systems.
Union Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh highlighted India’s growing role in global conservation diplomacy. He also underlined the need to balance economic growth with environmental protection.
Secretary Tanmay Kumar, DG Forests and Special Secretary S. K. Awasthi, and IGNFA Director Bharati attended the event along with senior ministry officials.
Delighted to have addressed officers of Indian Forest Service at the Mid-Career Training Programme.
IFS officers work to ensure that those who cannot speak for their interests thrive in our forests.
Stated that as India moves steadily towards the vision of a Viksit Bharat,… pic.twitter.com/cfhUtcYFGi
— Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) May 20, 2026
