August 6: Minister for Forests and Environment, Dr. Birendra Prasad Mahato, said that forests hold the potential to significantly contribute to the country's prosperity.

Highlighting that forests currently encompass 45 percent of the nation's total land area, Dr Mahato emphasized the importance of harnessing maximum benefits from these natural resources to bolster the nation's prosperity.

Dr. Mahato expressed these views while addressing an event organized by Round Table Nepal. He commended the organization for its commendable efforts in maintaining greenery across the country.

The minister underscored the collective responsibility of government bodies at all levels to actively engage in preserving and nurturing the eco-environment.

"With 45 percent of Nepal's landscape covered by forests, it is crucial to establish forests as a reliable avenue for enhancing the country's economic well-being”, he said.

Dr Mahato stated that all government and non-government bodies should collaborate to adopt innovative strategies to effectively implement the motto 'Green Forests - Nepal's Wealth’.