LDF government committed to people’s welfare, says Minister A.K. Saseendran

The hallmark of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government is its commitment to the people who are suffering in the State, Forest and Wildlife Minister A.K. Saseendran has said.

Inaugurating the Nagaravatika project and the Vanasree Eco Shop launched under the Ranni Forest Division at Veeyapuram timber depot compound on Thursday, Mr. Saseendran said that children should be encouraged to remain engaged in areas related to nature and environmental conservation. “Projects like these, implemented jointly by the Central and State governments, aim to emphasise the importance of protecting ecological balance,” the Minister said.

He said that efforts should be made, with the intervention of the local MLA, to deepen the pond within the forest depot compound to facilitate boat rides and provide swimming training in collaboration with the Sports Council. The Minister also suggested launching a “Take a Break” facility at Nagaravatika under the leadership of the Veeyapuram panchayat.

As part of the Pradhan Mantri Nagar Van Yojana, various works have been completed on around six hectares of land at Veeyapuram depot. The project aims to create local employment opportunities, help people experience nature up close and raise greater awareness about environmental conservation.

A children’s park, ornamental bamboo garden and symbolic groves have been set up. The Vanasree Eco Shop, established by the State government, facilitates the marketing of forest produce collected by members of tribal communities by ensuring better prices and eliminating middlemen. The public can also make use of the facilities available here.

Thomas K. Thomas, MLA, presided. Kodikunnil Suresh, MP, Chief Conservator of Forests (Southern Circle) R. Kamalahar, Haripad Block Panchayat vice president P. Omana and others attended the function.