'Preventing forest fire a priority'

Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati 29/03/2015:
 
 
 Union Information minister Prakash Javadekar takes the blessings of Sri Ramachandra Ramanuja Jeeyar at the 16th Sri Mahalakshmi Yagam in Tirupati on Sunday. BJP state spokesperson G. Bhanuprakash Reddy is also seen. ---PHOTO: K_V_POORNACHANDRA_KUMAR

Minister for Environments and Forests Prakash Javadekar on Sunday said that stringent measures had been initiated to prevent forest fires. Recalling the wild fire along the Seshachalam forest ranges that grabbed the attention of the country last year he said such mishaps will not occur hereafter.

Mr. Javadekar told the media in Tirupati that he had discussed red sanders smuggling issue with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. The Union Ministry is preparing an action plan to curb the menace. At the same time it had also been decided that more red sanders plantations would be grown in the Seshachalam hill ranges, given its demand in the international market, he said.

Earlier in the day, the Minister, along with his wife Prachee Javadekar, offered prayers at Lord Venkateswara temple.