Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar today cautioned that if Parliament does not remain a centre of dialogue, debate, and discussion, then it will slide into irrelevance. He said that such a decline would pose a serious threat to the country’s democratic values, which must be nurtured carefully. Addressing the Indian Forest Service probationers at the Parliament House Annexe in New Delhi today.

Mr. Dhankhar also cautioned against viewing developmental or environmental issues through a political prism. He said that everyone has to keep the national interest first. Highlighting the importance of balancing development with sustainability, the Vice-President emphasized that whenever development occurs and there is a necessity for land to meet development requirements, a portion of the forest land has to be converted. He further stated that authentic and genuine compensatory afforestation is essential in such cases. He said that nature has gifted India bountifully in all parts of the country and their efforts can make a significant difference in showcasing the nation’s rich wildlife, flora, and fauna.