Bhubaneswar, Aug. 5 -- Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today called upon forest officials to ensure a conflict-free coexistence for tribal communities and safeguard their interests.
Addressing the State Forest Officers' Conference, the Chief Minister noted that nearly one-fourth of the state's population belongs to the tribal community, most of whom reside in forested and adjoining areas.
"It is the moral responsibility of the government to ensure peaceful and harmonious coexistence for tribal communities and to protect them," Majhi stated.
Highlighting the pivotal role of forest officials, he said, "Since forest personnel regularly interact with the poor, tribals, and Dalits, it is imperative that they approach these communitie...