In a significant move aimed at employee welfare, the Lucknow Forest Department, acting on the directives of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, distributed essential aid and recognition to its ground staff on Friday. The initiative underscores the government's focus on supporting those who work tirelessly for environmental protection.
Blankets and Honors for Dedicated Staff
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Lucknow, Sitanshu Pandey, personally oversaw the distribution of blankets among the department's class IV employees and staff working on minimum wages. This act of providing warmth during the colder months was a direct response to the Chief Minister's instructions.
Beyond the distribution, the department took a moment to formally honor employees of the Awadh forest division who have shown exceptional dedication. These are individuals who have remained on duty throughout the year without availing any leave, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to their roles.
The Backbone of Forest Protection
The honored staff members are not just employees; they are the frontline warriors in the battle to preserve Uttar Pradesh's green cover. They play a key role in several critical areas:
- Manning remote forest outposts and checkpoints.
- Raising and protecting saplings in departmental nurseries.
- Preventing encroachment on vital forest land, a persistent challenge.
Their day-to-day efforts form the bedrock of the department's operational success in often challenging terrain.
Core Mission and Continued Welfare
Speaking on the occasion, DFO Sitanshu Pandey reinforced the department's fundamental responsibilities. He emphasized that forest conservation, wildlife protection, and maintaining environmental balance are at the heart of their mission. These goals, he noted, are only achievable with a motivated and supported workforce.
Pandey assured all employees that such welfare measures would continue in the future. This initiative signals a clear intent from the state leadership and the forest department administration to not only acknowledge the hard work of its lowest-tier employees but also to actively improve their working conditions. The move is seen as a boost to morale for staff who are essential for implementing the state's green policies on the ground.
