Increase forest cover to 33%: Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa tells Forest Department

You (Forest Department) have the big responsibility of conservation and the government is with you, CM Yediyurappa said

Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Wednesday told the Forest Department to strive to increase the forest cover from 22% of the total area of the state to the ideal target of 33% and urged the officials to develop harmony with tribal communities and farmers.

"I have been made aware of several financial issues. The government will make an honest effort to address any requirement with regard to funds. You have the big responsibility of conservation and we are with you," he said.

Stressing the importance of Western Ghats for Karnataka, he said 51 personnel from the department have lost life while on duty. “You have the responsibility of protecting the nation’s wealth. I request you to develop harmony with farmers and tribal communities. Without their cooperation, we can’t take up conservation work,” he said.

A retired PCCF said this was the first time in 35 years that a sitting chief minister had come to Aranya Bhavan and addressed the officers of the department.