ADDRESS BY THE HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA SMT. DROUPADI MURMU ON THE OCCASION OF CALL ON BY THE PROBATIONERS OF INDIAN FOREST SERVICE

Dear probationers of Indian Forest Service

I congratulate each one of you on joining the Indian Forest Service. You have earned this distinction through hard work, perseverance and dedication. Today marks not only the beginning of a career, but the beginning of a sacred duty to serve the nation.

You represent the rich diversity of India, bringing together different languages, cultures and experiences from across the country. This diversity is one of your greatest strengths. It will enable you to appreciate the unique ecological and social landscapes of our country and to serve with a broader perspective.

You are not only administrators of forests. You are custodians of India's natural heritage. Your role has become more significant today. The world is facing the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss. Forests are central to addressing these challenges. They conserve biodiversity, regulate local climates and sustain the livelihoods of millions of people. Your work will therefore contribute not only to India's environmental security but also to global efforts towards sustainable development.

India has responded to the environmental challenges with resolve and vision. Guided by the principle of harmonious coexistence with nature, our country has undertaken several transformative initiatives, from expanding renewable energy and restoring forests and wetlands to promoting sustainable lifestyles through Mission LiFE. The initiatives for river rejuvenation, wildlife conservation and community-led environmental stewardship reflect our commitment to balancing development with ecological responsibility.

Your responsibilities extend beyond conservation alone. Ecological protection must be harmonized with the legitimate aspirations of people who live in and around forests. Development and conservation should not be viewed as opposing goals. You should work towards solutions where both nature and communities can thrive together.

Dear probationers,

The world around us is evolving rapidly. Technological advancements, demographic changes and rising aspirations will continue to present new challenges before you. As officers, you must remain adaptable and forward-looking. You should keep learning and remain open to innovation while staying firmly rooted in constitutional values.

Technology is becoming indispensable for environmental governance. Use of technology enables better monitoring of forest health, wildlife movements, fire prevention and restoration efforts. However, you should remember that technology can never be a substitute for human touch, ethical decision-making and compassion. The best decisions often emerge when scientific evidence is combined with wisdom gained through experience and dialogue with people.

You should encourage people's participation in conservation, restoration and sustainable livelihood initiatives. Understanding the views and concerns of tribal communities, forest dwellers, women, farmers and local institutions will provide you with valuable insight. Indigenous knowledge has preserved the forests for generations. You should build trust between the administration and local people. When communities are stakeholders in protecting forests, conservation efforts will be more effective and long-lasting.

Dear young officers,

As you are entering public life, your integrity must remain unquestionable. Your words should reflect humility. You must lead from the front, particularly during difficult situations. You should always remember that empathy is one of the finest qualities of a public servant. Public service is about improving the lives of the people and contributing to the nation’s progress. Ecological security is integral to the national goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. I am confident that as Indian Forest Service officers, you will play a defining role in ensuring that India's progress remains green, inclusive and sustainable.

As you begin your career, you should promise yourselves that your decisions will be guided by integrity, your leadership by compassion, your actions by courage and your vision by the welfare of all beings. Any action that protects nature, animals and birds is also in the interest of humanity. I am confident that you will help build a future with healthier forests, more resilient ecosystems, and more empowered communities. My best wishes to you for a fulfilling, meaningful and exemplary career.

Thank you!
Jai Hind!
Jai Bharat!