রিপোর্টারের নাম 
Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said on Saturday that the leadership of young people has become vital in protecting country’s wildlife.
Speaking at a views exchange meeting with wildlife, forest and biodiversity conservation volunteers at Forest Bhaban in Dhaka’s Agargaon, she said the growing involvement of youths in rescuing, caring for and rehabilitating wild animals is a promising trend.
Public awareness on wildlife conservation, she noted, has increased significantly in recent years.
Rizwana stressed that ethical values must guide human interaction with nature.
Religious and social teachings, she said, encourage compassion, protection and responsible behaviour toward all living beings.
“Standing beside vulnerable people and vulnerable animals is the truest expression of humanity,” she added.
Addressing the youth, she said a united voice is essential in safeguarding wildlife. Those who destroy natural habitats often justify their actions on economic grounds, she warned.
To counter such narratives, she emphasised the need to strengthen factual awareness, environmental education and love for nature.
The adviser announced that next year, 64 wildlife conservation workers; one from each district, will be officially honoured, a move aimed at inspiring youth and promoting local leadership in conservation efforts.
Rizwana also said the government has approved the formation of a new unit dedicated to combating wildlife crime. Work is underway to equip wildlife rescue teams with modern tools and transport facilities.
The event was chaired by Chief Conservator of Forests Md Amir Hossain Chowdhury and attended by Director General of National Institute of Biotechnology Dr Md Sagir Ahmed; biodiversity expert Dr Mohammad Ali Reza Khan; Rajshahi University’s founding Dean of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Dr Md Jalal Uddin Sardar; and BBCF founder Dr Mollah Rezaul Karim.
Several individuals and organizations, including Dr Mohammad Ali Reza Khan, were honoured for their contributions to environmental and biodiversity conservation.
