BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 4th March 2026: Forests and wildlife are vital to maintaining ecological balance, and their protection is essential for the survival of humanity, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma said while inaugurating a workshop on Human-Animal Interaction at Pragya Bhavan on World Animal Day.
Debbarma announced that the Tripura government will construct four dedicated elephant passes at Mungiakami in Khowai district to facilitate safer movement of elephant herds and reduce human-animal conflict. He cautioned that the destruction of forests and wildlife would spell disaster for the environment and mankind, urging that developmental projects must safeguard natural habitats.
The minister emphasized the need for awareness programs in schools, noting that early sensitization would help students appreciate biodiversity and conservation. “The forest should remain habitable for wildlife so they can live freely,” he said.
Chief Conservator of Forests Ravindra Kumar Shyamal, speaking as a special guest, highlighted the importance of protecting medicinal trees and forest-dwelling birds, which play a crucial role in seed dispersal.
The workshop also featured discussions on technology-driven solutions for mitigating human-animal interaction by Bibhuti Prasad Lahokar of Aranyak Foundation. Contributions came from Dr. Parag Nigam of the Wildlife Institute of India, Dr. A. Pragathis, Wildlife Inspector, DFO Ashok Kumar, and retired IFS officer A.K. Gupta.
Tripura Chief Wildlife Warden Chaitanya Murthy delivered the welcome address, while CF Wildlife R. Arun Kumar proposed the vote of thanks. The event was presided over by PCCF P.L. Agarwal.
