Agartala, July 28: Emphasising the growing need for environmental conservation, Tripura minister Kishor Barman on Tuesday said that creating a green environment has become just as important as developing infrastructure in view of rapid population growth and changing climatic conditions.
The minister was addressing a tree plantation programme organised under the nationwide campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” at Kemtali village in Nalchar Assembly constituency. The initiative was jointly organised by the Forest Department and the local Gram Panchayat to encourage environmental awareness and increase green cover.
Barman, who hails from Kemtali village, highlighted the crucial role of trees in maintaining ecological balance and mitigating the effects of climate change. Referring to the increasing global temperatures, he urged people to actively participate in protecting and nurturing trees.
Expressing concern over the indiscriminate felling of trees, the minister said many people cut down trees near their homes simply because they cast shade on their land.
“A single tree protects countless lives, yet trees planted in village panchayat areas are often destroyed. What is their fault?” he asked, appealing to residents to preserve greenery rather than destroy it for personal convenience.
The minister stressed that environmental protection must go hand in hand with development. While roads, buildings and other infrastructure remain essential, he said expanding green cover is equally necessary to ensure sustainable development and improve the quality of life for future generations.
Speaking about development initiatives in the Nalchar Assembly constituency, Barman announced that every Gram Panchayat would be transformed into an ideal Panchayat office complex in a phased manner. He said the government is committed to improving rural infrastructure while simultaneously promoting environmental conservation through tree plantation drives and better public amenities.
He informed that 200 solar-powered lamp posts have already been installed in Kemtali village to improve rural connectivity and public safety. The project, he said, will be expanded to neighbouring areas before being gradually implemented across all villages in the constituency.
Barman also announced plans to upgrade village schools by developing infrastructure on the lines of the Kemtali school building, ensuring improved educational facilities for students in rural areas.
Appealing to the public to join hands in protecting the environment, the minister urged people not to cut trees unnecessarily but instead plant and care for them. He warned that conserving trees is essential to combating rising temperatures, preserving biodiversity and ensuring ecological balance for future generations. He said sustainable development can only be achieved when infrastructure growth is complemented by environmental protection.
