Continuing his focus on India’s Green Future, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled new schemes on World Environment Day. These initiatives aim to conserve wetlands and revive mangroves along the coastline to combat climate change.
Scheme 1: Amrit Dharohar Yojana – Conserving Ramsar Sites
The number of wetlands and Ramsar sites in India has tripled in the past 9 years. The Amrit Dharohar Yojana, launched today, ensures the conservation of Ramsar sites through public participation. These sites will become centers of eco-tourism and provide green job opportunities.
Scheme 2: Mishti Yojana – Protecting Coastal Mangroves
To safeguard the country’s coastline and the population residing there, the Mishti Yojana focuses on reviving and protecting the mangrove ecosystem. This initiative will restore mangrove cover in 9 states, mitigating the threats posed by rising sea levels and cyclones.
India’s Efforts in Single-Use Plastic Ban
PM Modi highlighted India’s ongoing campaign to eliminate single-use plastic, a key theme for this year’s Environment Day. India has taken significant steps to tackle this issue, including banning single-use plastic and making plastic waste processing mandatory. As a result, around 3 million tonnes of plastic packaging are now recycled annually, reducing the environmental impact.
India’s Green and Clean Energy Focus
Over the past 9 years, India has made unprecedented progress in green and clean energy. Initiatives such as solar power promotion and the distribution of LED bulbs have not only saved money for citizens, especially the poor and middle class, but also contributed to environmental protection. The country has seen a continuous reduction in electricity bills.
Global Leadership and Concerns of the Global South
PM Modi emphasized the importance of countries prioritizing climate protection over vested interests. He highlighted the contradictory model followed by advanced nations, where development took precedence over environmental concerns. India, as a leader of the Global South, raised the issue of Climate Justice and advocated for the rights of developing and poor countries in international forums.
India’s Balanced Approach: Nature and Progress
India’s philosophy, rooted in its ancient culture, promotes a balance between nature and progress. The country pays equal attention to ecology and the economy, investing significantly in infrastructure while focusing on environmental conservation. India has witnessed growth in forest cover, wildlife sanctuaries, and water security initiatives alongside economic achievements.
Mission LiFE
PM Modi mentioned “Mission LiFE” (Lifestyle for the environment) as a mass movement gaining popularity worldwide. This initiative encourages lifestyle changes to combat climate change. In less than 30 days, approximately 20 million people have joined this campaign, including school children and teachers.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s launch of new schemes on World Environment Day reflects India’s unwavering commitment to building a greener and sustainable future. By conserving wetlands, protecting mangroves, addressing single-use plastic, and emphasizing green and clean energy, India is playing a pivotal role in global efforts to combat climate change and protect the environment for future generations.
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