Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, Oct 12: Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, paid tribute to forest rangers during the ‘Recognition Ceremony of Forest Rangers’ held on the sidelines of the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
Describing them as “Guardians of the Wild”, the Minister released a report under the same title and hailed the tireless efforts of frontline forest staff in preserving India’s rich wildlife heritage.
“These are the unsung heroes who ensure that our forests and wildlife are protected for future generations,” said Singh. He emphasized that while policies and laws are essential, it's the boots on the ground—forest guards and rangers—who implement conservation in action.
He assured government support for forest personnel, acknowledging the many risks they face, from poachers to forest fires. “Many have made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our natural heritage,” he added.
The Minister also highlighted India's use of advanced technologies—such as drones, satellite surveillance, and radio collaring of wildlife—to assist in conservation efforts, alongside capacity-building programmes for forest staff.
Singh further praised the traditional knowledge held by forest workers, urging governments to formally document this wisdom. “In India, we respectfully call them Vanrakshaks and Vanrakshikas—true guardians of our natural treasures,” he said.
He congratulated the IUCN and Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) for their role in recognizing and supporting these frontline defenders of biodiversity.