Patna: In a significant move to promote environmental protection and a sustainable future, the “Paryavaran Samvad” program was held today at Shaheed Veer Kunwar Singh Azadi Park in Patna. The event was organized by the Department of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, and was inaugurated by lighting a lamp by prominent dignitaries including the Chairman of the Bihar Legislative Council, Awadhesh Narayan Singh, Environment Minister Dr. Prem Kumar, Secretary of the Department Bandana Preyashi, MLA Arun Kumar Sinha, and Patna Mayor Sita Sahu.
The program focused on critical issues such as increasing green cover, promoting plantation, and educating the public on climate change, biodiversity conservation, wetland preservation, and pollution control. Addressing the gathering, Legislative Council chairman, Awadhesh Narayan Singh hailed the initiative as a timely and meaningful one, stressing that global pollution levels are rising, and in response, the Prime Minister, along with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has been driving efforts to safeguard the environment. He urged the people of Bihar to take personal responsibility in protecting nature, pointing to the positive impact of initiatives like “Jal- Jeevan- Hariyali” in the state.
In his presidential address, Minister Dr. Prem Kumar emphasized that Earth is the only planet capable of sustaining life and urged the public to take urgent action toward environmental preservation. “Environmental protection is essential for healthy living and a green future. Without immediate action, the consequences will be dire for future generations,” he warned. Dr. Kumar noted that human interference with nature has led to the destruction of ecosystems, driving many species toward extinction. He called for collective action, highlighting the need to plant trees, conserve water, reduce plastic usage, and promote renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
Secretary Bandana Preyashi reinforced the message, urging attendees to adopt environmentally friendly lifestyles. She highlighted the success of the state’s “Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali” program and discussed the importance of agro-forestry and spring plantation. Preyashi also encouraged people to reduce their carbon footprint by walking or cycling and supported the development of national-level parks across Bihar.
Prabhat Kumar Gupta, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF), emphasized that the “Paryavaran Samvad” initiative would foster greater societal participation in environmental protection, enabling individuals from all walks of life to contribute to a greener future. He stated that this dialogue would allow people to voice their ideas and take collective responsibility for protecting Bihar’s natural heritage.
The event saw a diverse group of attendees, including Patna’s Deputy Mayor Reshmi Chandravanshi, Chairman of the Biodiversity Council Bharat Jyoti, and other prominent environmentalists and government officials. Environmental activists, social organizations, school students, and green warriors also played a vital role in the event. Speakers stressed that environmental protection is a shared responsibility, requiring active involvement from both the government and the public.
The program called upon every citizen to play their part in realizing the dream of a “Green Bihar,” emphasizing the importance of collective action in preserving the state’s natural resources for future generations.
