Patna: Bihar is setting ambitious environmental goals, with a target to increase its green cover to 17 percent by 2028. This announcement came from Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Dr. Sunil Kumar on Thursday, during a World Environment Day program held at Gyan Bhawan in Patna. Currently, the state has a forest area of 12.55 percent and an overall green area of 15.05 percent. The minister urged everyone to actively protect the environment, emphasizing its critical role in sustaining life.
The event, organized on the 50th anniversary of the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB), centered around the theme ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’.
Combating Plastic and Boosting Green Initiatives
During his address, Minister Dr. Sunil Kumar highlighted the pervasive danger of plastic, stressing the crucial need to eliminate it from daily life for environmental protection. He also lauded the success of the state’s Hariyali Mission, which began in 2012, and the Chief Minister’s Nursery Scheme, which has facilitated the opening of nurseries across Bihar through Jeevika Didis.
The Forestry Farmer Scheme, launched under the Agriculture Roadmap, also received a special mention. This initiative allows farmers to plant saplings on their private ‘raiyati’ land, yielding “very good results” so far. Alongside afforestation, the state has undertaken measures for water conservation, including pond preservation, which has contributed to an increase in the water table.
Reducing Plastic Dependence: A Collective Effort
Harjot Kaur Bamhrah, Additional Chief Secretary of the Department, echoed the call for collective environmental protection. She pointed out that plastic constitutes “99 percent of the items used in everyday life, from toothbrush to pen,” underscoring the imperative to reduce dependence on it. Citing the challenges faced during the Corona period, she remarked on humanity’s significant impact on nature.
Dr. DK Shukla, Chairman of the BSPCB, reinforced the message, describing plastic use as “extremely dangerous” and urging the complete cessation of plastic carry bags.
Recognizing Environmental Stewards
The program also served as a platform to honor those contributing to environmental protection. ITC Limited, Vasudevpur, Munger, received the ‘Industrial Pollution Control Award’ for its exemplary pollution control efforts. Additionally, Santosh Kumar Suman (Jamui), Atul Gunjan, Manoj Kumar (West Champaran), and Shivbandhu Dubey (Simri, Buxar) were presented with the ‘Environment Friendly Award’.
Students who excelled in various competitions were also recognized. Amber Sinha and Ishan Bhushan from St. Karen’s High School, Gola Road, Patna, secured the first prize in the quiz competition, while Arnav Prakash and Manas Vaibhav of Don Bosco Academy, Patna, took the second prize. Winners of the essay writing and site painting competitions were also awarded, celebrating young environmental advocates.
