THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, FEBRUARY 11, 2026
“Healthy forests are our strongest shield
against climate change and the foundation of ecological security and
sustainable livelihoods,” said Odisha’s Minister
for Forest, Environment and Climate Change Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia while
inaugurating the 14th National Workshop of JICA Assisted Forestry Projects in
India in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.
Held in Bhubaneswar from
February 11 to 13, the three-day national workshop is themed “Future Ready
Forestry: Climate Resilience, Digital Transformation & Sustainable Wood
Economies.” The event is jointly organised by the Odisha Forestry Sector
Development Project, Phase-II (OFSDP-II) and the Japan International
Cooperation Agency (JICA), bringing together senior policymakers, forestry
experts and international partners to chart the future of India’s forest
governance.
In his inaugural address, Minister
Singhkhuntia underscored the critical importance of strengthening forest ecosystems
to combat the global climate crisis. He said forests not only preserve
biodiversity and ecological balance but also sustain the livelihoods of
millions, particularly in tribal and rural regions. Emphasising the role of
global partnerships, he expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan and JICA
for their sustained support in conserving India’s natural heritage.
Singhkhuntia highlighted that
JICA-assisted projects have significantly contributed to improving forest
management practices, enhancing community participation and safeguarding the
interests of tribal communities, Scheduled Castes and backward classes. As
OFSDP Phase-II approaches its scheduled completion in March 2027, the Minister
called for continued collaboration and voiced hope for the rollout of
Phase-III. He noted that sustained international cooperation would be crucial
for achieving the goals of “Samruddha Odisha 2036” and aligning with the
national vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”
The inaugural session witnessed
the presence of several eminent dignitaries from India and Japan. Vineet S.
Sarin, Chief of Development Operations at JICA India, and Wakamatsu Eiji,
Senior Representative of JICA India, delivered key addresses highlighting the
evolving India-Japan partnership in sustainable forestry. They reaffirmed
JICA’s commitment to supporting climate-resilient forestry models and promoting
sustainable wood-based economies.
K.B. Singh, Inspector General (EAP), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, stressed the need for integrating digital tools and data-driven strategies into forest management. Dr. K. Murugesan, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Odisha, along with G. Rajesh, Additional PCCF (Projects) and Project Director, OFSDP, outlined Odisha’s progress under the JICA-supported initiatives.
The workshop is expected to facilitate strategic discussions on digital transformation, climate adaptation and sustainable forest-based economic models, setting a roadmap for resilient and technology-driven forestry management across India.
