Bhubaneswar: n a powerful message underscoring Odisha’s commitment to climate action and ecological preservation, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi marked World Environment Day with the announcement of an ambitious target to plant 7.5 crore saplings across the state this year. The declaration was made at the state-level Environment Day celebration held at Krushi Shiksha Sadan, OUAT, Bhubaneswar.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister stressed that environmental conservation is no longer an option, but a necessity. He said environmental degradation threatens the health of the planet and the well-being of future generations, and urged citizens to embrace sustainable practices in their daily lives. Majhi highlighted the alarming impacts of plastic waste and emphasized the need to eliminate single-use plastics through collective awareness and action, calling it a fight that must be led by the people themselves.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to cleaner air and a healthier urban environment through the State Clean Air Programme, which is being implemented in pollution-prone cities. He also noted the State Pollution Control Board’s crucial role in enforcing air quality standards and promoting eco-friendly alternatives in everyday consumption.
Majhi praised the success of the ‘Ek Peed Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, which has already led to the plantation of over 6.5 crore trees. He credited individuals, families, and institutions for their enthusiastic participation, which has helped build a people-led green movement across the state. The campaign, he said, has brought environmental awareness into the heart of every home in Odisha.
Highlighting Odisha’s growing green footprint, the Chief Minister shared that the state has recorded a net increase of 560 square kilometres in forest and tree cover since his government assumed office. Odisha now ranks among the top four states in afforestation achievements. In a major conservation milestone, Majhi also announced the official recognition of Similipal as India’s 107th National Park. He launched the ‘Ama Similipal’ initiative with a budget of ₹50 crore aimed at protecting the region’s unique biodiversity.
The ceremony honoured 185 Prakruti Mitras and 211 Prakruti Bandhus for their notable grassroots contributions to environmental protection. Schools, educators, and organizations were also recognized for their innovation and commitment during the Eco-Model Exhibition and Best Eco Club Awards. The Chief Minister applauded their role in inspiring environmental stewardship among the youth.
A ceremonial tree plantation was held at the beginning of the event, with CM Majhi, Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia, and Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja participating under the ‘Ek Peed Maa Ke Naam’ initiative. Students from various districts also explored an environmental exhibition organized alongside the celebration, which showcased sustainable practices and conservation strategies.
The event also saw the unveiling of important environmental reports and policy documents aimed at guiding Odisha’s sustainability efforts in the coming years. In his concluding remarks, Chief Minister Majhi urged everyone to join hands in creating a plastic-free, pollution-free Odisha. “Let this day be a turning point in our journey toward a cleaner, greener future,” he said.