President Droupadi Murmu commended the Indian Forest Service probationers, emphasizing their vital role as custodians of India’s natural heritage. She urged them to prioritize expanding forests, highlighting their significance as the bedrock of life on Earth. President Murmu stressed that as administrators of forests, the probationers play a crucial part in achieving the national goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
She expressed confidence in the young officers’ ability to uphold India’s green, inclusive, and sustainable progress. President Murmu underscored the increasing importance of their role in addressing global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss. She emphasized that the work of Indian Forest Service officers not only enhances India’s environmental security but also contributes to global sustainable development efforts.
President Murmu emphasized the need to balance ecological protection with the legitimate aspirations of communities residing near forests. She encouraged the probationers to seek solutions where both nature and communities can thrive together. The President urged active participation from people in conservation, restoration, and sustainable livelihood projects to ensure long-lasting impact.
Understanding the perspectives of tribal communities, forest dwellers, women, farmers, and local institutions was highlighted as crucial by President Murmu. She emphasized that involving communities in forest protection efforts leads to more effective and enduring conservation outcomes. President Murmu reiterated that public service is about enhancing people’s lives and advancing the nation’s development.
The Indian Forest Service probationers from the 2024 and 2025 batches are currently undergoing training at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy in Dehradun. The 2024 batch comprises 111 officer trainees, while the 2025 batch includes 131 officer trainees, with two officer trainees from Bhutan in each batch.
