On July 31, the world commemorates World Ranger Day

On July 31, the world commemorates World Ranger Day. To honor this occasion, an event dedicated to World Ranger Day took place at Tbilisi National Park, specifically in the section of the Sabaduri forest.

The event was meticulously organized by the Agency of Protected Areas under the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture. This Agency oversees the protection of our country's exceptional natural treasures, with more than 400 rangers distributed across 24 territorial administrations.

The duties of these dedicated rangers encompass a range of responsibilities, including preventing poaching, managing natural and human-caused fires, monitoring biodiversity, and ensuring the safety and information of visitors when required. Remarkably, almost 13% of Georgia's territory falls under the protection of our diligent rangers.
During the event celebrating World Ranger Day, a cherished tradition continued where the "Ranger of the Year" was recognized in all protected areas administrations, and symbolic gifts were presented to them. Additionally, a photo exhibition featuring captivating shots taken by the rangers was showcased. Moreover, the event served as a solemn moment to honor, appreciate, and remember all the rangers who have lost their lives while fulfilling their duties.

Esteemed guests attended the event, including Deputy Ministers of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Nino Thandilashvili, and Kakha Kakabadze, as well as the Chairman of the Agency of Protected Area, Davit Iosebashvili, representatives from the Georgian government, diplomatic corps, and international organizations.
"The expansion of protected areas and the creation of new ones are among the priorities of our government. We have made significant progress in this regard, with protected areas now encompassing 13% of our country's territory. The safeguarding, maintenance, care, and ownership of this unique biodiversity are paramount.

The rangers bear immense responsibility in this endeavor; they play a pivotal role in nature conservation, and their contributions are truly invaluable. As part of the celebration, we commend the exceptional rangers who have excelled in their duties and pay tribute to those who tragically lost their lives while serving. We must recognize that undertaking such crucial work is tantamount to heroism. The state ensures that our rangers enjoy suitable working conditions and social guarantees so they can carry out their duties with dignity," stated First Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Nino Thandilashvili.

World Ranger Day has been observed since 2017, and the Professional Day of Rangers was originally established by the International Federation of Rangers, first celebrated in 2007.