Bhubaneswar, 5 June (H.S.): On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that the state government will plant 7.5 crore saplings during the current year as part of its broader strategy to conserve the environment and address climate change.
Delivering the keynote address at the state-level World Environment Day event held at the Krushi Shiksha Sadan, OUAT campus, CM Majhi underscored the urgency of building a greener environment amid escalating pollution and global warming. “This day is dedicated to spreading awareness on environmental protection and climate change. Creating a sustainable and green environment is no longer optional—it is essential,” he stated.
Highlighting single-use plastic as a significant environmental threat, Majhi called for a mass movement to eliminate plastic waste. “Plastic has become an inseparable part of our lives, but its overuse is creating multiple crises. We must transform the campaign to eliminate plastic into a people’s movement,” he urged.
To combat air pollution in urban areas, the Chief Minister cited the State Clean Air Programme, launched in collaboration with the State Pollution Control Board. He added that the government is promoting long-term alternatives to plastic and strengthening waste-management systems.
CM Majhi also lauded the success of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, which has already seen the planting of more than 6 crore saplings across Odisha. Since the new government assumed office, the state has recorded a net increase of 560 square kilometres in forest and tree cover—ranked fourth highest nationally.
He noted that individuals and institutions have collectively planted over 2 crore saplings, setting a new benchmark for community participation. In addition, Majhi celebrated the recent designation of Similipal as India’s 107th national park, and announced a new initiative, ‘Ama Similipal’, under which ₹50 crore will be invested in wildlife and biodiversity protection efforts.
Recognising environmental champions, the Chief Minister congratulated 185 “Prakruti Mitra” and 211 “Prakruti Bandhu” awardees from various districts. He also extended his best wishes to participants and winners of the state-level eco-model exhibition on “Ending Plastic Pollution,” and commended the top eco-clubs and teachers for their commitment to sustainable practices.
“Environmental protection must begin at the individual and family level,” Majhi remarked, urging citizens to pledge their support for a cleaner, healthier environment. “A healthy society needs a healthy environment. Let us commit today to ending plastic pollution and work collectively for a sustainable future.”
Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia and Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja were among the dignitaries present. The ceremony concluded with a symbolic tree plantation under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda