International Day of Forests Observance
Mar 21st, 2025 | Admin
The IQAC and the Social Science department of PKM College of Education Madampam observed the International Day of Forests on 21st March 2025. As part of it a discussion was conducted on the topic “Challenges Facing Forest Conservation” considering its relevance in the present context. The discussion was held in the Social Science classroom at 11.30 am. Thanujashri welcomed everyone to the programme, introducing the topic and the HoD of Social Science Dr. Veena Appukkuttan delivered the inaugural address.
After the formal session, the discussion began with Peeyush sharing his views on the present situation of forests in Kerala, where there is high protection given to the existing forest areas. He highlighted that the major issues faced by the forests of our state are of internal nature rather than that of external encroachments. Subsequently, Mathew presented his views on the challenges facing forest conservation, stressing on the outdated nature of present forest laws and rising cases of illegal cutting of protected trees like sandalwood due to the loopholes in the laws concerning their protection. Afterwards, Sangeetha shared her thoughts on the topic, focusing on the multitude of problems faced by the world’s forests, her own memories of centuries old trees being cut down in the name of development and the need for integrating a love for forests into our mind. We were also blessed to have Denilson, a student-teacher of English department, present at the occasion, who also put forward his ideas on the challenges faced by forests especially in the particular case of Wayanad, being his own home place. He laid emphasis on the rising man-animal conflict in the district and the presence of hunters around forested areas. Overall, everyone gained an understanding of the harsh realities faced by our forests. Sneha gave the vote of thanks at the conclusion of the programme.
