Patna: Bihar’s Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr Sunil Kumar, marked World Environment Day by launching an environment-themed song at Patna Zoo and extending a gesture of support to grassroots environmental activism.
The newly released “Environment Song: Harit Bihar Banayenge – Naya Bihar Banayenge” was unveiled in the presence of media professionals, social media influencers and environmental campaigners. Aimed at raising ecological awareness, the song is part of a broader campaign by the Bihar government to engage the public in sustainability efforts.
In a symbolic gesture, the minister also announced financial assistance of Rs 25,000 from his discretionary fund to Rajesh Kumar, popularly known as the “Oxygen Man”, in recognition of his contributions to environmental protection.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Kumar highlighted Bihar’s dual identity as a hub of ancient heritage and ecological richness. “Bihar is not just historically significant; it is environmentally vital,” he said, citing institutions like zoos as key awareness platforms that reach lakhs of visitors annually.
The minister pointed to ongoing state-led initiatives such as the Hariyali Mission, Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali and the “Ek Ghanta Paryavaran Ke Naam” campaign as examples of cross-sectional engagement. “Every section of society has been included in the journey toward a greener Bihar,” he added.
Dr Kumar noted a marked improvement in forest cover, which has increased from 7.62% in 2004 to 15.05% in 2024, with a target of 17% by 2028. He also outlined the government’s eco-tourism efforts in destinations like Rajgir, Valmiki Nagar and Bodh Gaya under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
He invoked Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to plant trees in honour of one’s parents or neighbours under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative and encouraged people to devote “just one hour a day” to environmental action. “If every citizen gives one hour to the environment daily, Bihar can once again be glorious,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Additional Chief Secretary Harjot Kaur Bamhra underscored the importance of public engagement. “The government alone cannot protect the environment. It requires individual efforts and community cooperation,” she said. She urged citizens to reduce plastic usage and embrace eco-friendly alternatives.
A short inspirational video produced by the Forest Department was also screened at the event, intended to motivate individuals to contribute to environmental protection, especially on weekends and holidays.
The event began with a welcome address by Prabhat Kumar Gupta, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force), and concluded with a vote of thanks by Abhay Kumar Dwivedi. Other senior officials present included Bharat Jyoti, Arvinder Singh, Abhay Kumar Singh, Surendra Singh, Gaurav Ojha and Hemant Patil, Director of Patna Zoo.
