Those who sacrificed lives to protect natural resources saluted

Dharwad: The sacrifice of those who paid with their life for the preservation of natural resources and particularly the rich jungles of India was remembered and the slain heroes paid rich tribute on Friday, when the forest department in Dharwad celebrated Forest Martyrs’ Day. In remembrance of the martyrs, three rounds of bullets were fired in the air, and silence observed for two minutes.
Principal district and sessions judge for Dharwad Umesh Adiga, deputy commissioner Nitesh Patil and chief conservator of forests (Dharwad circle) Manjunath were among the dignitaries who participated in the ceremony. They placed a wreath on the memorial constructed in the honour of the martyrs.
“Youngsters must be made aware of the importance of protecting natural resources. The dedication and sacrifice of those who stake their life to preserve forests must be appreciated. To be in a job where one has to protect oneself and the forest is a challenging one,” said Umesh Adiga, calling on the authorities concerned to ensure that families of the martyrs were compensated fairly.
He added that protection of natural resources was a duty not merely of the forest department but also of the general public, who he said must assist the law enforcement agencies in safeguarding natural wealth.