Two-Day Forest Fair Inaugurated at Sajjangarh by Forest Department

Udaipur: With the objective of promoting forest-based products and strengthening rural livelihoods, a **two-day Forest Fair** organized by the Forest Department commenced on Saturday at **Sajjangarh**. The fair was inaugurated by **Minister for Tribal Area Development Department, Shri Babulal Kharadi**, by cutting the ribbon. The fair features exhibitions of forest-based products, with participation from producers from the district and nearby regions.

Minister Shri Kharadi visited each stall set up at the fair and gathered information about the **quality, marketing, and future potential of forest products**. Addressing the gathering, he stated that in earlier times, people relied on **forest-based medicines** for long and healthy lives, but today society has become overly dependent on **chemical-based medical systems**, which has adversely affected human longevity. He emphasized that the government aims to guide society back toward the **Vedas and a natural way of life**.

He further said that forest produce offers **dual benefits**—it provides livelihood opportunities while also contributing to better health. Institutions like **TRIFED** are doing commendable work in generating livelihoods in rural areas. Stressing the importance of environmental balance, he remarked that **sustainable utilization of natural resources** is the only way to secure the future.

**“Where Forest Dwellers Exist, Forests Remain Protected” – Rajya Sabha MP Garasia**
Addressing the program, **Rajya Sabha MP Shri Chunnilal Garasia** said that various **value-added products** can be developed from forest produce, with **mahua and honey** being prominent examples. He emphasized the need for **wide publicity** of such fairs so that more people from the region can benefit. He stated that where forest dwellers reside, forests are naturally protected. Highlighting concerns related to the **Aravalli range**, he said the role of the Forest Department in its conservation is extremely important and the ongoing issues related to Aravalli need serious consideration.

**Lok Sabha MP Dr. Mannalal Rawat** stated that rural communities understand the importance of forests very well. He emphasized adopting **best practices from other countries** and mentioned that **bamboo** can become a strong source of rural livelihood, requiring more focused efforts.

On this occasion, **Divisional Chief Conservator of Forests (Territorial) Shri Sunil Chhidri** informed that the fair is being organized to promote forest products and enhance rural livelihoods. More than **50 diverse stalls** have been set up at the fair. He shared that forest produce worth approximately **₹25 crore** is sold annually in the Udaipur region, directly benefiting the local tribal community. Efforts are also underway to develop similar markets in nearby districts.

The program was attended by **CCF Wildlife Shri S. R. Yadav**, **Deputy Conservator of Forests Shri Mukesh Saini**, **Shri Ajay Chittoda**, **Deputy Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Shri Yadavendra Singh Chundawat**, along with other officers and staff of the Forest Department.