Bhubaneswar: On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday announced an ambitious plan to plant 7.5 crore saplings across the state this year.
The move underscores the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and climate action.
Speaking at the state-level Environment Day celebrations held at OUAT’s Krushi Shiksha Sadan in Bhubaneswar, CM Majhi highlighted the critical need to combat pollution and climate change by creating a greener, healthier ecosystem.
“Environmental degradation poses a serious threat to the future of our planet. Today’s observance is a reminder of our duty to protect nature and adopt sustainable practices for the well-being of future generations,” he said.
The Chief Minister raised concern over the widespread use of plastic, especially single-use plastic, linking it to major environmental issues such as climate change, soil and water pollution, and waste management challenges. “Plastic waste must be tackled through a people’s movement,” he stressed.
Majhi informed that the state has launched the State Clean Air Programme, aimed at curbing air pollution in densely populated urban areas. The State Pollution Control Board has been tasked with its implementation, alongside efforts to ban single-use plastic and promote sustainable alternatives.
He credited the ‘Ek Peed Maa Ke Naam’ campaign for the plantation of over 6.5 crore trees so far. “Real change begins at home—with our families. Citizens and institutions have collectively planted more than 2 crore saplings, creating a green movement across Odisha,” he noted.
The Chief Minister reported a net increase of 560 sq. km in forest and tree cover since the current government assumed office, placing Odisha fourth among Indian states in afforestation. He also announced the formal recognition of Similipal as India’s 107th National Park and launched the ‘Ama Similipal’ initiative, with an allocation of Rs 50 crore, for the protection of the region’s flora and fauna.
CM Majhi congratulated 185 Prakruti Mitras and 211 Prakruti Bandhus from various districts for their exemplary contribution to environmental conservation. He also lauded the efforts of schools, teachers, industries, and organizations recognized during the Eco-Model Exhibition and Best Eco Club Awards.
“Let us resolve today to eliminate plastic pollution and ensure a clean, healthy environment for all,” he concluded, appealing to citizens to actively participate in raising environmental awareness.
At the beginning of the program, the Chief Minister, along with Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia and Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, participated in a ceremonial tree plantation under the ‘Ek Peed Maa Ke Naam’ initiative. Students from across Odisha also visited the environmental exhibition on the sidelines of the event.
On the occasion, the state government released several key reports and publications, including:
- State Pollution Control Board FAQs Book
- Coastal Health Status Report
- Water Efficiency in Thermal Power Plants
- Risk and Response Report on Fluoride in Aluminium Smelters
- State Clean Air Programme – 2025
The welcome address was delivered by Additional Chief Secretary Satyabrat Sahu and the vote of thanks by State Pollution Control Board Member and Secretary Uma Nanduri. PCCF and HoFF Suresh Pant, Divisional Director Dr. K. Murugesan, along with environmentalists and scientists, were also present at the event.
