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Text of the Vice-President’s address to the faculty and students of the College of Forestry, Sirsi (Excerpts)

Published on 05-May-2025 09:03 PM

Introduction

The speaker begins by emphasizing the importance of choosing a line of inquiry that is fundamental to the survival of humanity and provides a lifeline for our planet. They connect natural harmony with the idea that nature has been our way of life, setting the stage for discussing the need for sustainable practices.

Key Points

1. Natural Harmony

The speaker discusses how natural harmonious relationships are essential for the balance required to save the Earth. They reference ancient scriptures and philosophical concepts like the Vedas and Upanishads, which often stress the importance of environmental balance. This section highlights the role of nature in supporting human survival.

2. Forest Conservation

A significant part of the speech is dedicated to forest conservation. The speaker refers to the ISFR 2023 report, which states that India has nearly double its forest cover compared to other countries. They acknowledge that while progress has been made, targets such as achieving 33% forest coverage remain far from those set in the past. This section illustrates the urgency of environmental conservation.

3. The Concept of “One Plant, One Man, One Family”

The speaker then introduces the concept of humility and community through the tradition of Mahayana philosophy. They explain how this idea can inspire personal growth by viewing oneself as a partner to your mother or family member. This section emphasizes the importance of collective efforts for environmental conservation.

4. The Global Movement

Finally, the speaker acknowledges that saving the Earth requires global cooperation and collective effort. They draw on the history of Mahatma Gandhi’s struggle with natural disasters, illustrating how a shared commitment can lead to significant positive change. This section ties together local actions with broader societal movements.

Conclusion

The speech concludes by congratulating the reader for choosing an important line of inquiry and expressing hope that their essay will reflect this commitment to saving the Earth. It is a motivational message encouraging writers to prioritize sustainability and collective effort.


source: Text of the Vice-President’s address to the faculty and stud...