Sirsi, 5 May

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday described climate change as a “cliff-hanging” global crisis and emphasised the crucial role of forests as the “lungs” of the nation.

Speaking at a special programme on the ‘Role of Forestry in Nation Building’ at the College of Forestry in Sirsi, Dhankhar highlighted the vital connection between healthy forests and public well-being. “Agriculture is our lifeline, but forests are equally essential—they regulate climate, buffer disasters, and support livelihoods, especially for the poor and marginalised,” he said.

Urging citizens to protect forests, he warned against reckless exploitation of natural resources and called for mindful consumption. “We must consume only what is necessary and recognise our role as trustees of Earth’s ecosystems,” he stated.

Drawing on India’s civilisational values, Dhankhar underscored the deep roots of sustainability in Vedic culture and stressed the need for sustainable development as an economic and ecological imperative.

He also called for an inclusive, interdisciplinary approach to education, noting that subjects like medicine, engineering, and environmental science should no longer be studied in isolation. Encouraging students to explore forestry’s potential for innovation, he said, “Our cultural heritage is a treasure trove. The more you explore, the better you can serve creation.”

Dhankhar concluded by urging everyone to rise to the environmental challenges of the time and protect nature for future generations.