Asserting that wanton destruction of natural resources poses a grave threat to environment, President Pranab Mukherjee today said the demands of development need to be balanced with conservation and preservation of environment.
He was speaking during an interaction with a group of probationers of Indian Forest Service of the 2015-17 batch including two foreign trainees from Royal Government of Bhutan, who had called on the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Mukherjee congratulated the probationers for successfully qualifying one of the most difficult competitive examinations.
He said they were entering a new phase in their careers and would dedicate the rest of their lives to the service of the people of the country.
The President said wanton destruction of natural resources has posed a grave threat to the environment, flora and fauna.
"The demands of development need to be balanced with conservation and preservation of environment. Many years ago, Mahatma Gandhi had pointed out that the world has enough for everyone's need, but not enough for everyone's greed.
"The whole world has recognised the danger caused to humanity due to destruction of natural resources and also the need to address the grave issue. Fortunately, our awareness has increased and steps are being taken to mitigate the problem," Mukherjee said.
The President said it was the responsibility of the probationers to preserve and protect forests and conserve the depleting resources.
He told them that if they do their jobs to the best of their ability, they would be able not only to advance their careers but also to contribute to protecting the civilisation and humanity.
The probationers are in Delhi to participate in an appraisal course in 'Parliamentary Processes and Procedure' organised by the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training.
