Union Minister Bhupender Yadav Leads IIFM-Bhopal Meeting on Cheetah Conservation

Synopsis
On April 18, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav chaired the 40th IIFM annual meeting in Bhopal. He reviewed 'Project Cheetah', announced new MBA programs, and emphasized collaborative efforts for environmental conservation.
Key Takeaways
- Union Minister Yadav chaired the IIFM meeting.
- New MBA programs to launch in 2025-26.
- Infrastructure improvements at IIFM include a new auditorium and hostel.
- Importance of collaborative conservation efforts.
- Concerns over plastic use and carbon emissions.
Bhopal, April 18 (NationPress) Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav presided over the 40th annual general meeting of the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM) society in Bhopal on Friday, where he evaluated the advancements of 'Project Cheetah'.
During this significant meeting, the Union Minister assessed the academic research, training frameworks, and infrastructure enhancements at IIFM.
He revealed plans to introduce new MBA (Master of Business Administration) programs for the academic year 2025-26.
Additionally, he inaugurated a 500-seater auditorium and a 60-room hostel at the institute.
While on a day-long visit to Bhopal, Yadav expressed, “We are dedicated to enhancing infrastructure and building capacity within institutions to foster a supportive atmosphere for research and awareness regarding ecosystem conservation.”
Later, alongside Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, he convened a meeting with senior officials to assess the progress of 'Project Cheetah'.
The Union Minister noted that an in-depth discussion took place regarding the conservation of cheetahs during this meeting.
Furthermore, he inaugurated a two-day national workshop aimed at addressing critical issues such as forest restoration, climate change, and community-based livelihoods at Noronha Administrative Academy in Bhopal.
In his address at the workshop's inaugural session, he emphasized the necessity for collaborative efforts to safeguard forests and the environment.
Highlighting the challenges ahead, Yadav affirmed that neither the government nor any single community can independently protect the environment and forests.
He warned that the excessive use of plastic presents a perilous trend, potentially leading to disastrous consequences.
“The rise in carbon emissions from modern lifestyles in both rural and urban areas is alarming. We must recognize that if we continue to damage nature, it will retaliate. Hence, collective action is essential for environmental protection,” stated the Union Minister.
He stressed the importance of safeguarding the rights of communities residing in or near forests but noted, “It is time for us to also adapt.”
“We must focus on building the capacity for adaptation, which requires the collective efforts of every individual,” he concluded.
During the workshop, Union Minister Yadav highlighted that the Centre has embraced the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.