Govt to focus environment conservation: Forest Minister Basnet

KATHMANDU, May 19: Minister for Forest and Environment, Shakti Bahadur Basnet, on Saturday said the government would develop proper infrastructure for environment conservation.

Priority and needs would be coordinated for the infrastructure development aligning country’s priority, he said at a program organized in the Capital on the occasion of the 25th Establishment Day of World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Nepal.

He also suggested launching various programs for the conservation and protection of wild animals.

Likewise, Director for the WWF, Nepal Dr Ghan Gurung pointed out the need for wildlife conservation to contribute to sustainable development and tourism promotion in the country.

On the occasion, Nepal Army was presented with ‘Nature Conservation Silver Jubilee Award’ in recognition of its contributions to the conservation of nature and wildlife. A documentary on wildlife conservation was also screened on the occasion.

Individuals and various governmental, non-governmental and international organizations, were honoured for their role in the conservation of wildlife and biodiversity. Likewise, Army Battalions stationed in the national parks across the country were also honoured for their contribution to materialize ‘Zero Poaching Year’ from 2011 to 2018. RSS