Coexistence key to save wildlife, says forest minister Eshwar Khandre

Speaking after inaugurating the Wildlife Week event in Vidhana Soudha, the minister said the killing of five tigers in MM Hills, 19 monkeys in Bandipur and peacocks in Madhugiri was a painful reminder about the need to adopt coexistence.

Bengaluru: Forest, Ecology, and Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre said that coexistence and mindful consumption are important measures to save wildlife and the environment for both current and future generations.

Speaking after inaugurating the Wildlife Week event in Vidhana Soudha here, the minister said the killing of five tigers in MM Hills, 19 monkeys in Bandipur and peacocks in Madhugiri was a painful reminder about the need to adopt coexistence.

While crediting the conservation activities and strict enforcement of the law for having the second-highest number of tigers (563) and the highest number of elephants (5,345) in the country, Khandre said people have to contribute to save the environment.

“The natural habitats are shrinking, and many species of wildlife are staring at extinction. Raising awareness on this matter has never been more important than today,” he stated. He also called upon the people to refrain from burning crackers during the upcoming Deepavali festival.

He said the smog created by the smoke will have a detrimental impact on respiratory health.