BHOPAL/Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav on Thursday said that environmental conservation is deeply rooted in Sanatan culture, asserting that the state’s ecological initiatives are inspired by traditions that regard nature as sacred.
Launching the state-level programme of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0’ campaign on the occasion of World Environment Day, the Chief Minister said every aspect of Indian life—from worship and food habits to devotional practices—reflects the importance of protecting the five elements of nature.
“In Sanatan culture, planting a tree is considered equivalent to nurturing ten sons. Environmental protection is embedded in our way of life,” he said while addressing a gathering at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre in Bhopal.
Dr Yadav planted saplings of Swarna Champa, Sita Ashok, Ramphal and Amla during the event and said the state government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is fully committed to environmental conservation. He highlighted the ongoing Jal Ganga Sanvardhan Abhiyan, under which rivers, ponds, wells and stepwells across the state are being restored and conserved.
The Chief Minister also distributed 11 state-level environment awards across eight categories to industries, educational institutions, social organisations and individuals for their outstanding contribution to pollution control, environmental protection and sustainable development during 2024-25.
On the occasion, five course modules on circular economy and documentation records of 500 historic stepwells across 16 districts, prepared under the Jal Ganga Sanvardhan campaign by EPCO and INTACH, were released. Dr Yadav also visited an exhibition showcasing innovations in environmental protection, circular economy and water conservation.
Referring to the country’s development trajectory, the Chief Minister said the 13th year of the Narendra Modi government’s tenure had begun and described the Prime Minister as India’s longest-serving elected leader. He credited the Centre’s policies for strengthening governance and promoting scientific, technological and sporting excellence.
Touching upon environmental challenges, Dr Yadav described the Bhopal gas tragedy as one of the worst examples of human interference with nature. He said the state government had successfully disposed of the hazardous waste lying at the former Union Carbide factory after nearly four decades and was now moving towards proper management of the site.
He also underlined the state’s focus on clean and green energy, saying major projects based on solar, wind, biomass and hydropower are progressing rapidly, with green energy initiatives underway at Sanchi, Khajuraho and other locations.
Highlighting wildlife conservation efforts, the Chief Minister said Madhya Pradesh had emerged as a model for harmonious coexistence with wildlife through initiatives such as the cheetah reintroduction project and the relocation of wild buffaloes from Assam.
Among the award recipients were Visag Bio Fuel Pvt Ltd (Balaghat), RCCPL Cement (Maihar), TAFE Motors and Tractors Ltd (Mandideep), Kesar Agrotech (Balaghat), Seoni Malwa Municipal Council, Hamidia Hospital, Bhopal, Vijesh Lunawat Smriti Foundation, Acropolis Institute of Technology and Research, Indore, and DAV Public School, Singrauli.
Minister of State for Forest and Environment Dilip Ahirwar said public participation had given new dimensions to the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign and stressed the need to conserve air, water and trees. Additional Chief Secretary (Forest and Environment) Ashok Barnwal said the Prime Minister’s ‘Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)’ mission had gained global recognition and was playing a significant role in promoting environmental awareness.