Villagers sensitised to conserving forest resources

Coimbatore

Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) S. Prabha who addressed the villagers asked them to play an active role in conserving forests as the forest belongs to the people living in the tribal habitations for generations. They were also asked to avoid (avutukai) country made bombs as they have claimed lives of many wild animals including an elephant calf, recently. The tribals were also told that they could only enjoy the benefits of the piece of land allotted to them and that they cannot sell it. Besides refraining from carelessly leaving lit cigarettes in the forest they were also warned against irritating wild animals. Extending support to the department, the people from tribal habitations also put forward their demands. They sought appointment of anti-poaching watchers from their hamlets than deputing one from other villages and protection for their agricultural lands from wild animals. The forest officials said that the farmers should workout means to protect their crops from animals.