More public participation for wildlife

Bhopal, Jan 17: More public participation would be mobilised in Madhya Pradesh for better conservation of wildlife. Decision to undertake efforts in this direction was taken at the general meeting of Madhya Pradesh Tiger Foundation which was presided over by Forest Minister Vijay Shah. Minister of State for Forest Narain Singh Kushwah also took part in the meeting.

It was decided at the meeting to appoint agents to mobilising more public participation in the work of wildlife conservation. Forest Department would prepare project for these agents. These agents would collect donations in the name of Tiger Foundation through cheques. For this work, agents would be given commission. The lifetime membership fee for corporate and industrial houses has been raised to Rs 10 lakh by the Foundation. Forest Minister Vijay Shah gave the suggestion that individuals as well as institutions must be inspired to come forward for bearing expenses on tigers for a fixed period. Names and details of such persons should be prominently displayed at National Parks. The Forest Minister also issued instructions for providing one each ambulance to all the National Parks. He said that public cooperation must be sought for this work. Forest Minister Vijay Shah asked the Parks' directors to inspire traders doing business near the National Parks to donate essential items.

It was decided at the meeting that free entry should be given to the National Parks to people who acquire membership of Tiger Foundation. The Forest Minister said that with a view to attracting school children towards National Parks, buildings accommodating 50 children should be constructed at every national park. These buildings would be constructed by Tribal Welfare Department. He said that 50-seat Ashrams would be established at the National Parks. The meeting was told that the Tiger Foundation Society has received grant to the tune of Rs 32.14 lakh. Out of these, Rs 17.25 lakh has been provided by Singapore-based Nikhil Nagle. The minister instructed the officials to send Nagle a citation letter.