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The Hindu
3 days ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
A.P. govt. sets target to increase green cover to 50% by 2047
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced an ambitious plan to increase the green cover in the State to 37% by 2029 and 50% by 2047, saying that 'those who do not plant trees have no right to expect clean air.' Participating in World Environment Day celebrations at ADC Park in Ananthavaram village of Thullur mandal in Guntur district on Thursday, Mr. Naidu emphasised the collective responsibility of all citizens in safeguarding the environment. Komera Ankarao appointed adviser Mr. Naidu appointed Komera Ankarao, popularly known as 'Andhra Forest Man', who has been working to protect Nallamala forests, as Adviser to the Forest and Environment Department. 'His (Mr. Ankarao) grassroots conservation efforts and awareness campaigns are inspirational, and his role will be pivotal in guiding the State's green mission,' Mr. Naidu said. The Chief Minister, joined by Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan, launched a massive one-crore tree plantation drive and pledged to raise 5.58 crore saplings by the Environment Day next year. Highlighting the urgency of combating global warming, Mr. Naidu noted, 'Rainfall has declined, groundwater is depleting, agriculture is at risk, and fluoride-related health issues are rising. Trees are our only rescue.' Seed Rakhi Mr. Pawan Kalyan, who holds the Environment portfolio, emphasised the importance of citizens' participation and awareness among the youth. 'We are starting innovative campaigns such as 'Seed Rakhi' to involve young girls in environmental protection,' he said. He also assured the creation of urban forests in all 175 Assembly constituencies and efforts to eliminate single-use plastic across the State by June 2026. Currently, Andhra Pradesh has a green cover of 30.05%, with forest areas spanning 23% of the State's landmass. Mr. Naidu noted that past regimes had planted trees only for 'photo opportunities', while the current administration is committed to bringing in a measurable impact. Green capital The Chief Minister also revealed plans to transform Amaravati into a green, futuristic capital, introducing Miyawaki gardens, renewable energy projects, and free 2-kilowatt solar panels for SC and ST households. Waste-to-energy plants in Guntur and Visakhapatnam, and 157 Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (RRR) centres across 87 municipalities are already operational. Mr. Naidu concluded by announcing that International Yoga Day, on June 21, would be held under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Visakhapatnam, aiming to set a Guinness World Record with participation from more than 2 crore people across the State.
India Gazette
3 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
Gujarat CM calls for collective action to transform PM Modi's vision of 'ending plastic pollution' into mass movement
Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], June 6 (ANI): During the World Environment Day 2025 event held at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel called for collective efforts to transform the Prime Minister's vision of 'Ending Plastic Pollution' into a mass movement. The program, jointly organised by the Forest and Environment Department and the Gujarat Pollution Control Board, was graced by Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Mulubhai Bera and Minister of State Shri Mukesh Patel. CM Patel emphasised that World Environment Day is more than just an event; it is a day for everyone to pledge to end plastic pollution. He highlighted the ongoing nationwide campaign, 'One Nation, One Mission - End Plastic Pollution,' which has been active for the past 15 days under the leadership of the Prime Minister. The CM stated that development cannot come at the cost of the environment. The Prime Minister has envisioned sustainable development through environmental conservation. The CM stated that the spirit of environmental preservation has been deeply embedded in our culture since ancient times, reflected in the belief in seeing divinity in plants. He also shared details about the launch of the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 campaign, which includes the development of 'Sindoor Van' in Ahmedabad and the creation of 'Matru Van' through the plantation of 4,000 saplings at the Secretariat premises in Gandhinagar. The CM expressed concern over the increasing environmental risks due to the easy and widespread use of plastic. He stated that plastic is one of humanity's significant inventions and has become an integral part of our lifestyle. However, single-use plastic poses a serious threat to the environment and future generations. The time has come to decide whether we want to leave the next generation a world filled with plastic or one that is free from plastic. As responsible citizens and civilised people, we must acknowledge the damage and serious risks posed by unnecessary plastic use, CM stated. The Chief Minister said that as part of the Aravalli Green Wall Project launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on World Environment Day, the state government aims to plant tree saplings over 19,225 hectares across seven districts of Gujarat, namely, Aravalli, Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Mehsana, Panchmahal, Mahisagar, and Dahod. He highlighted that starting from this year's World Environment Day, the Prime Minister has introduced the four 'R's -- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover -- as a mantra for environmental protection. Shri Narendra Modi is a visionary leader who has consistently pioneered innovative approaches to environmental conservation and sustainable resource management both nationally and globally. Initiatives like 'One Sun, One Earth,' promoting renewable energy, the 'Net Zero' carbon emissions goal, 'Green Growth' for sustainable development, and 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' to preserve Earth's greenery are landmark programs that guide the nation towards a sustainable future. The Chief Minister added that the Prime Minister has emphasised environmental and nature conservation in our daily lives through initiatives like 'Catch the Rain' for groundwater recharge and 'Mission LiFE' for water sustainability. The Chief Minister mentioned the installation of cloth bag vending machines and plastic bottle crusher machines at various locations across the state and appealed to the public to use cloth bags. He said that by adopting small habits and efforts, like using cloth bags and carrying steel bottles for water, we should initiate the change ourselves. On behalf of Gujarat, the Chief Minister congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian Armed Forces for the remarkable success of Operation Sindoor. He said that this operation firmly established the Prime Minister's 'Zero Tolerance Against Terrorism' policy globally. Additionally, on this year's World Environment Day, the Prime Minister has initiated a mission to make India free from plastic pollution with a strong commitment to 'End Plastic Pollution,' the Chief Minister added. On the occasion of World Environment Day, Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Minister Mulubhai Bera extended greetings and said that the day represents a collective resolve, a commitment to conservation, and a reflection of sensitivity towards nature. He noted that the theme for World Environment Day 2025 is 'End Plastic Pollution.'Mulubhai Bera observed that the reverence for nature has been deeply ingrained in Indian tradition since ancient times. Our Vedas contain verses advocating water conservation, and we follow the philosophy of seeing divinity in nature. As cited in the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna says, 'Among trees, I am the Peepal tree; among animals, I am the lion.' Even today, women observe Vat Savitri Vrat and worship the banyan tree, reflecting the unbreakable bond between nature and Indian culture. He said this nature-centric culture is India's unique strength. He stated that the observance of World Environment Day is a timely opportunity to introspect, renew our thinking, and adopt environment-friendly practices. Guided by the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Gujarat continues to take proactive steps for environmental protection and conservation. Initiatives such as Mission LiFE, MISHTI Yojana, and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam have helped increase public awareness and instilled a collective sense of environmental responsibility. The minister cautioned that the same modern conveniences that have simplified life have also led to grave environmental challenges, most notably, the menace of single-use plastic. He explained that such plastic renders soil infertile, pollutes rivers and oceans, and ultimately returns to our food chain in the form of microplastics. In response, the Forest and Environment Department has undertaken several focused initiatives to curb plastic pollution. As part of the plastic-free campaign, awareness drives are being conducted across forest areas, religious places, tourist destinations, and schools to educate people about eco-friendly alternatives. Under the leadership of the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), 646 plastic processing units, 7 waste-to-energy plants, and 5 co-processing cement plants are operational across the state. Innovative solutions like reverse vending machines, cloth bag vending ATMs, and eco-friendly Prasad boxes are further reinforcing the state's commitment to environmental conservation. Minister of State for Forest and Environment Mukesh Patel also extended greetings to the citizens and mentioned that Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel had formally launched the state-wide Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign and tree plantation drive under the Matruvan initiative. Referring to last year's efforts under the same campaign, he highlighted that 17.50 crore trees were planted in Gujarat, making it the second-highest contributor in the country in terms of total plantations. He further raised concerns about the growing health implications of plastic pollution, pointing out that traces of microplastics are now increasingly being found in food. As part of the ongoing state-wide environmental campaign that began on May 22, more than 1.5 lakh citizens have actively participated in over 2,500 events, including beach and garden clean-up drives. These efforts have led to the collection and proper disposal of more than 6 lakh kilograms of plastic waste. Shri Mukesh Patel added that Gujarat has remained a pioneer in encouraging alternatives to single-use plastic. GPCB has approved over 225 units manufacturing compostable plastic alternatives and around 40 units producing cloth and paper bags. He urged all citizens to commit themselves and their families to eliminating plastic from daily use, adding that only such a collective pledge can lead to a truly plastic-free planet. As part of the World Environment Day celebrations, CM Bhupendra Patel visited an exhibition featuring innovative projects and startups working in the areas of plastic recycling and reuse. He interacted with the participants and encouraged them for their contributions towards sustainability. A documentary was also screened covering key topics such as Best Practices in Plastic Waste Management in Gujarat, the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign, and other awareness activities conducted in the lead-up to World Environment Day. In Surat, strategic MoUs were signed between the Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) and its member units for effluent trading, in the presence of the Chief Minister. Additionally, Shri Bhupendra Patel virtually inaugurated, laid foundation stones, and launched a total of 11 diverse development and environment-related projects. The programme was attended by Gandhinagar North MLA Ritaben Patel, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister MK Das, GPCB Chairman RB Barad, Principal Secretary of the Forest and Environment Department Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary RC Meena, Municipal Administrative Commissioner Sushri Remya Mohan, Head of Forest Force AP Singh, and PCCF Wildlife Jaypal Singh. Senior officials and staff from the Forest Department and GPCB, along with representatives of environmental NGOs, also took part in the event.(ANI)
Hans India
27-05-2025
- General
- Hans India
Meghalaya govt pushes for UNESCO focus on living root bridges
Shillong: The Meghalaya government has taken ambitious initiatives to bring UNESCO's focus to the iconic natural living root bridges of the mountainous northeastern state, an official said on Tuesday. A workshop on the 'Living Root Bridges Cultural Landscape' was held on Tuesday at the Heritage Club in Shillong. Addressing the workshop, Principal Secretary, Forest and Environment Department, Sampath Kumar, highlighted that the initiative was originally envisioned by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, who expressed a strong commitment to bring UNESCO's focus to the unique living root bridges and assured dedicated funding for the project. Kumar noted that several research efforts are already underway to study the bridges in depth, with the government working closely with local communities to further the initiative. Representing UNESCO, Junhi Han, Chief of the Culture Unit at the UNESCO South Asia Regional Office in New Delhi, expressed gratitude to the Meghalaya government for facilitating the study of these bioengineered structures. She described the living root bridges as extraordinary examples of harmony between nature and humanity. Han commended the state for promoting these naturally formed structures, which are not products of industrial machinery but the result of indigenous knowledge and skills passed down through generations. She stressed the importance of conserving this heritage and educating the youth on its significance. Padma Shri awardee and former UPSC Chairman David R. Syiemlieh shared his appreciation for being part of the discussion titled 'Guiding the Preparation of World Heritage Nomination Dossier for Living Root Bridges'. Syiemlieh emphasised the vital role the bridges play for local communities, especially in enabling river crossings. He explained that locals use bamboo and betel nut trunks to direct the roots across streams until they grow into functional footbridges. Syiemlieh further stated that while some root bridges have been lost over time, many still stand today, some even over a century old. He underscored their cultural and ecological significance and noted their wide presence across the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. The workshop marked a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to preserve and potentially nominate the Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya for UNESCO World Heritage recognition. The root bridges of Meghalaya are an enigma, an integral part of the old Khasi lifestyle that dates back to the times when trekking through thick forests and negotiating fast-flowing rivers was a part of the routine. The workshop was organised by the Meghalaya government's Department of Arts and Culture, in collaboration with UNESCO, INTACH, and the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBMA).
NDTV
16-05-2025
- Politics
- NDTV
Sikkim's 'Wild' Golden Jubilee Gift: 21 Endangered Snow Leopards Identified
As Sikkim celebrates its golden jubilee of statehood on Friday, it has unwrapped a gift from the wild. The first-ever Snow Leopard Population Assessment Report, jointly presented by the Forest and Environment Department and WWF-India, has identified 21 endangered snow leopards in the high-altitude zones of north and west Sikkim. The study involved two years of meticulous scientific tracking, using camera traps, across the Himalayan terrain. The report suggests that there is enough habitat to support an even larger snow leopard population, opening up exciting possibilities for future conservation. To mark the occasion, the state has also introduced a new mascot, a snow leopard named "Kuzu", which is meant to symbolise Sikkim's commitment to wildlife protection and biodiversity. "This is not just a scientific milestone, but a testament to Sikkim's deeply rooted conservation policies," Pradeep Kumar, who is the principal secretary of the Forest and Environment Department, said, emphasising that the state's focused efforts are allowing forest life to thrive. Mr Kumar also recalled a rare instance where a Royal Bengal tiger and a snow leopard were captured on the same camera trap, highlighting Sikkim's unique ecological riches. 50 Years Of Statehood Sikkim, which enjoyed protectorate status after India's Independence, became a state in 1975 following a referendum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the people of Sikkim on the state's golden jubilee on Friday, highlighting its serene beauty and "strides in diverse sectors". "Warm greetings to the people of Sikkim on their Statehood Day! This year, the occasion is even more special as we mark the 50th anniversary of Sikkim's statehood! Sikkim is associated with serene beauty, rich cultural traditions and industrious people. It has made strides in diverse sectors. May the people of this beautiful state continue to prosper," he wrote on X.
Time of India
24-04-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Stamp Duty Waiver for Private Land Acquisition for Developing Solar Projects: CM
1 2 Nagpur: In a major push to accelerate the implementation of the Mukhya Mantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana 2.0, the Maharashtra govt has announced a stamp duty waiver for private land acquisitions for developing solar parks or projects under the scheme. The decision, announced by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday during a high-level review meeting held in Mumbai, is expected to ease the process for developers and attract faster investment into the state's ambitious solar mission. Under the project, 16,000 MW of solar power generation will be done in Maharashtra, making it the world's largest decentralised solar energy project. The solar power project is aimed at providing daytime electricity to farmers for agricultural pumps. CM Fadnavis also directed the completion of the project by September 2026 during the meeting. The goal is also to generate 7,000 MW of solar power by 2025. Meanwhile, as compared to the 690 MW generation target of 100 days, Maharashtra produced 746 MW. Despite this achievement, developers continue to face challenges related to forest clearance, environmental concerns, and security. So, Fadnavis on Thursday also instructed the formation of district-level task forces to address these issues. During the meeting, CM also claimed that while stamp duty was already waived for govt land, now the exemption would also apply to private land acquisitions for the solar projects under the scheme, following developer requests. CM also emphasised that forest rights granted to tribal farmers should be legally validated by the forest department to ensure they benefit from solar projects. "As solar projects are eco-friendly, the Forest and Environment Department should consider granting land use approvals and submit related proposals to the govt," he added. He also added that since the state govt already granted no objection for the use of private or govt land for solar projects, there is no need for an additional no objection certificate (NOC) from gram panchayats. CM Fadnavis instructed all district collectors and CEOs to act accordingly. During the meeting, additional chief secretary Abha Shukla said under the solar energy scheme, solar power projects are being set up across the state to operate all agricultural feeders. Currently, projects with a combined capacity of 15,284 MW are under construction. So far, 1,359 MW of solar energy capacity has been installed, providing daytime electricity to 2,14,000 farmers.
