CM felicitates Environmental Champions on World Environment Day
Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 5 Jun: On the occasion of World Environment Day, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami felicitated individuals and institutions for their exceptional work in environmental conservation at the Chief Sevak Sadan, his official residence, here, today.
The Sunderlal Bahuguna Nature and Environment Conservation Award – 2025 was presented in two categories: In the Government category, the award was given to Rudrapur Municipal Corporation. Deputy Municipal Commissioner Shipra Joshi received the award. In the Non-Government category, the award was conferred upon Vijay Jardhari and Pratap Singh Pokhriyal.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister also released an awareness poster by the Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board; inaugurated a portal developed by the Eco-Tourism Corporation; administered a pledge for a Plastic-Free Uttarakhand; distributed cloth bags to school children to promote sustainable alternatives.
The Chief Minister directed the Forest Department to plant at least 1,000 fruit-bearing trees in each forest division this year to ensure adequate food supply for wildlife. He appealed to the public and pilgrims not to feed harmful substances to animals and to plant trees on birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions to contribute to environmental conservation.
CM Dhami extended greetings on World Environment Day and emphasised that Uttarakhand, with its rich biodiversity, sacred rivers, and Himalayan glaciers, is uniquely positioned for natural conservation.
He highlighted India’s growing global leadership in renewable energy under the Prime Minister’s vision through missions such as Solar Mission; Electric Mobility; Green Hydrogen Mission; Swachh Bharat Abhiyan; Namami Gange; Plastic-Free India Campaign.
He also shared that Harela, a traditional festival of greenery, is celebrated as a major environmental festival in the state. Additionally, the formation of the Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority (SARA) was announced to protect traditional water sources like Naulas, Dharas, and rain-fed rivers.
He stated that in the past year alone over 6,500 water sources have been rejuvenated; around 3.12 million cubic metres of rainwater have been harvested; waste bins have been made mandatory in vehicles entering the state, including during the Char Dham Yatra.
He noted that the recently held National Games in Uttarakhand were themed as “Green Games”, where all medals and kits were made from e-waste and recycled materials.
Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal reiterated Uttarakhand’s dedication to environmental sensitivity, highlighting that the state is among the top five carbon-absorbing states in the country. He emphasised promoting public participation and eco-friendly alternatives to plastic.
Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan underlined the introduction of the Gross Environmental Product (GEP) concept to balance development with conservation. He mentioned the state’s new initiative to institute State-Level Environmental Awards.
Also present at the event were Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Dr Dhananjay Mohan and senior officials from the Forest, Police, and Administrative departments.
