PM Modi praises Tibetan eco-forest in Bylakuppe, founder expresses pride

Bengaluru : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded a unique environmental initiative in Karnataka during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme, bringing national attention to a Tibetan-managed private forest in Bylakuppe.

The appreciation has been widely welcomed, especially by the founder of the ‘Eco Nalanda’ forest, Karma Samtenling Rinpoche, who expressed happiness over the recognition. The forest is located in Bylakuppe in Periyapatna taluk of Mysuru district, near the Kodagu border.

Rinpoche said the Prime Minister’s words have provided encouragement to continue their environmental efforts. “This recognition motivates us to do more for nature and for the country that has given us shelter,” he said.

Over the past three decades, Rinpoche and his team have transformed nearly 100 acres of barren land into a dense and thriving forest. What began as a modest effort has today evolved into a rich ecosystem supporting biodiversity and ecological balance.

The Eco Nalanda forest is home to a wide variety of medicinal plants sourced from different parts of the world. These plants not only contribute to conservation but also serve as a resource for traditional healing practices.

The forest has also become a sanctuary for hundreds of bird species and small wildlife, significantly improving the local microclimate. Residents say the area has become noticeably cooler and greener over the years due to the afforestation effort.

Environmentalists have hailed the project as a model for community-driven conservation, especially in the context of climate change and ecological degradation.

The Prime Minister’s mention of the initiative in a national forum like ‘Mann Ki Baat’ is expected to bring further visibility and inspire similar projects across the country.

Rinpoche reiterated that the forest is a “token of gratitude” to India for providing refuge to the Tibetan community. “We wanted to give something meaningful back to this land,” he added.