Bhubaneswar: Calling for greater public participation in environmental conservation and climate action, Odisha on Wednesday observed World Environment Day 2026 at Lok Seva Bhawan with a series of awareness initiatives, recognition of grassroots environmental champions, and a renewed commitment towards building a greener and climate-resilient future.
The state-level celebration, organised by the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, was held under the theme “Prakruti Ru Prerana – Jalabayu Pain, Ama Bhabisyat Pain” (Inspired by Nature – For Climate, For Our Future). Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia attended the programme as the chief guest.
The event began with traditional ceremonies, including floral tributes to Lord Jagannath, watering of a banyan tree and the rendition of the state anthem “Vande Utkal Janani”. The Minister also inaugurated an exhibition showcasing various environmental initiatives and visited stalls put up by government agencies and partner organisations.
Addressing the gathering, Singkhuntia said environmental protection is a collective responsibility and stressed the need to maintain harmony between human development and nature. He observed that traditional agricultural practices were inherently environment-friendly and urged people to incorporate those principles into modern farming systems.
Highlighting the State Government’s efforts, the Minister said Odisha is working towards becoming a green, clean and climate-resilient state under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. He added that the department is focusing on community participation and awareness campaigns to transform environmental conservation into a people’s movement.
“The ultimate objective is to ensure a safe, healthy and sustainable environment for future generations,” he said, while emphasizing the importance of climate-friendly lifestyles and sustainable consumption practices being promoted through the #NowForClimate campaign.
On the occasion, the department honoured 205 institutions and 207 individuals with the prestigious “Prakruti Mitra” and “Prakruti Duta” awards in recognition of their outstanding contributions to environmental protection and conservation efforts. The Minister congratulated the awardees and appealed to citizens to actively participate in safeguarding natural resources.
The programme also witnessed the felicitation of the three best Eco-Clubs in the state for their environmental awareness activities. Several publications prepared by the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department were released during the event.
Principal Secretary of the department Bhaskar Jyoti Sharma, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Dr. K. Murugesan and Director Environment K.S. Pradeep were among those present. Senior government officials, environmentalists, representatives of educational institutions, Eco-Club members, voluntary organisations and citizens attended the celebration.
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