Mysore/Mysuru: Former Mysuru-Kodagu MP Prathap Simha highlighted the unique bond between adivasis (tribals) and the wild while inaugurating the screening of the short film TIME during Global Tiger Day celebrations organized by Namma Wild Wonders at RamaGovinda Rangamandira, Ramakrishna Nagar.
Simha criticized Forest Officers for their lack of proactive measures in addressing man-animal conflicts and for failing to adopt scientific conservation methods. He pointed out that while Forest Officials are often seen as ineffective, tribals possess extensive knowledge about forest ecosystems and should be involved in conservation efforts with appropriate training.
He praised past initiatives, including the planting of over 8,000 saplings along the 43-km Outer-Ring Road (ORR) during his tenure, which he emphasized as a significant achievement. Simha also called for renewed efforts to enhance Mysuru’s green cover, criticizing the shelving of the Laksha Vruksha Yojane project under the new government.
Simha expressed disappointment with the ongoing preference for teak over bamboo in forest plantations, arguing that bamboo could better prevent wild elephants from straying into urban areas. He commended Namma Wild Wonders for their short film aimed at combating tiger poaching and recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation in the Golden Jubilee of Project Tiger in Mysuru in 2023.
The event was attended by notable figures including Secretary of Nrupatunga Vidyasamsthe Savitha P. Mallesh, wildlife expert Somashekar, and members of the TIME film crew.