Forest Watch

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In terms of natural resources, Madhya Pradesh is one of the most blessed states of India. Being second-largest by geographic area has allowed one-third of the state to host various 18 different kinds of forests, including tropical moist, tropical dry, tropical thorn, and subtropical broadleaved hill forests.

The presence of tigers, buffalo, and a wide variety of deer, antelope, and birds in these forests makes Madhya Pradesh a prominent wildlife tourism destination in India. The jungles also provide catchment areas for rivers like Narmada, Chambal, Betwa and Sone. The economic importance of the forests also cannot be undermined as timber (primarily teak) and non-timber forest products, such as, medicinal herb collection, contribute greatly to the state.

Guardians of the woods

Understandably, the Madhya Pradesh Forestry Department has its plate full with responsibilities to maintain the ecological balance an area of over 77,000 square kilometers. It is essential that the department’s large and geographically dispersed workforce is responsive, transparent, accountable, and service-oriented.