Former Indian cricket legend Anil Kumble has stepped into a new role this time not on the field, but in the forests. Karnataka’s Minister of Forest, Biology, and Environment, Eshwar B. Khandre, has appointed Kumble as the official Forest and Wildlife Ambassador of the state.
Kumble, known for his sharp focus and disciplined gameplay, now brings the same passion to environmental conservation. Accepting the role without any remuneration, he aims to use his stature to raise public awareness about forest preservation and wildlife protection across Karnataka.
At a recent press conference, Minister Khandre praised Kumble’s dedication and outlined the government’s sweeping initiatives to combat climate and ecological challenges. Over the past two years, the state has hosted nearly 9,000 vanamahotsavas (tree planting festivals) and planted over 8.5 crore saplings across Karnataka.
Looking ahead, the government has proposed afforestation on more than 1.2 lakh hectares of land, the development of 25 new arboretums, and the establishment of 35 new forest patches. Among the standout projects is a major new ecological park planned for Madappanahalli near Yelahanka, designed to preserve biodiversity and protect green zones from land encroachment.
Kumble’s appointment adds fresh momentum to Karnataka’s growing environmental movement. With his influence and the government’s commitment, the state is hoping to inspire a broader public connection to conservation — a movement where every citizen can part of the green revolution.