Bhubaneswar: The state-wide World Environment Day 2026 was celebrated Wednesday at the Convention Center in Lok Seva Bhawan under the theme “Prakruti Ru Prerana – Jalabayu Pain, Ama Bhabisyat Pain” (Inspired by Nature – For Climate, For Our Future).
The event was organized by the Department of Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Government of Odisha. Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia attended as chief guest.
He inaugurated an exhibition by the Department of Environment and Climate Change and visited stalls set up by various organizations. The programme began with floral tributes to Lord Jagannath, watering of a banyan tree, and the playing of the state song “Vande Utkal Janani”. On the occasion, the minister felicitated the three best Eco-Clubs of the state. Several publications prepared by the department were also released.
Addressing the gathering, Singkhuntia said individuals, society and environment are complementary to each other and maintaining balance is everyone’s duty. He added that traditional farming systems helped protect the environment and new systems should adopt those basic principles.
He said the state government, under the Chief Minister’s leadership, is working towards a green, clean and climate-resilient Odisha. The department is trying to turn environment protection into a mass movement through public awareness and community-based management, he added. “Creating a safe and healthy environment for future generations is our ultimate goal,” the minister said. He noted that the #NowForClimate campaign is promoting climate-friendly lifestyles and sustainable practices.
Singkhuntia congratulated 205 institutions and 207 individuals who received “Prakruti Mitra” and “Prakruti Duta” awards for outstanding work in environment protection. He urged everyone to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle and join the movement.
Principal Secretary Bhaskar Jyoti Sharma, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Dr. K. Murugesan, and Director Environment K. S. Pradeep were present. Senior officials, representatives from educational institutions, eco-club members, voluntary organizations, environmentalists and citizens also attended the programme.
