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On June 5, 2025, Odisha joined the global community to celebrate World Environment Day, embracing the theme #BeatPlasticPollution with remarkable initiatives led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. Hosted globally by the Republic of Korea, this day highlighted the urgent need to address plastic pollution, a crisis affecting ecosystems worldwide. Odisha, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, marked the occasion with tree-planting drives, beach cleanups, and awareness campaigns. From Bhubaneswar to Puri, communities united to promote environmental sustainability.
What Is Odisha’s Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Campaign?
Odisha’s flagship initiative, “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” was a cornerstone of World Environment Day 2025 celebrations. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a goal to plant 7.5 crore saplings across the state in 2025, building on the success of 6.65 crore saplings planted in 2024. Launched at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) in Bhubaneswar, this campaign reflects Odisha’s dedication to increasing its forest cover, which grew by 560 square kilometers from 2021 to 2023, ranking the state fourth in India for afforestation. CM Majhi emphasized that this initiative, meaning “One Tree in the Name of Mother,” honors both nature and cultural values.
How Does Odisha’s Forest Cover Growth Impact Sustainability?
Odisha’s efforts in expanding forest cover demonstrate its commitment to combating climate change. The state’s proactive measures, including the “Ama Similipal” initiative with a Rs 50 crore allocation for Similipal National Park, now India’s 107th national park, strengthen biodiversity conservation. By integrating afforestation, these steps align with the global sustainable development goals, ensuring healthier ecosystems for future generations.
What Events Took Place in Bhubaneswar for World Environment Day 2025?
Bhubaneswar, the state capital, hosted vibrant state-level celebrations at OUAT’s Krushi Shiksha Sadan. CM Mohan Charan Majhi, alongside Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia, led a ceremonial tree plantation under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign. The event featured an environmental exhibition by students, showcasing models on ending plastic pollution. The government also released key publications, including the State Pollution Control Board’s FAQs Book and the Coastal Health Status Report, highlighting Odisha’s focus on sustainable practices.
How Did Puri Contribute to World Environment Day 2025?
In Puri, renowned Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik created a striking sand art installation on the beach, using plastic bottles to convey the #BeatPlasticPollution message. This artwork drew thousands of visitors and sparked widespread social media engagement, amplifying Odisha’s commitment to reducing plastic waste in coastal areas. Beach cleanups in Puri removed significant amounts of plastic debris, protecting marine ecosystems and aligning with global efforts to address the 11 million tonnes of plastic entering oceans annually.
How Did Communities Participate in World Environment Day 2025?
Community involvement was central to Odisha’s World Environment Day 2025 celebrations. In the Gajapati district, a district-level event featured a cleanliness drive and tree plantation at Brindaban Palace, alongside a padyatra to raise awareness about environmental protection. Residents, volunteers, and NGOs like Sathee Parivar participated in cleanups and conservation campaigns, emphasizing grassroots action.
What Role Did Odisha’s Youth Play in Environmental Awareness?
Odisha’s youth were instrumental in driving environmental consciousness. Schools and colleges, including Rama Devi Women’s University in Bhubaneswar, organized workshops, eco-quizzes, and tree-planting drives. These activities educated students about plastic pollution and climate change, fostering a generation committed to sustainability. Inspired by global events like the Jeju Youth Forum in South Korea, Odisha’s youth engaged in discussions on innovative solutions, ensuring long-term environmental impact through education and action.
How Is CM Majhi Leading Odisha’s Anti-Plastic Initiatives?
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi played a pivotal role in Odisha’s environmental efforts, emphasizing the elimination of single-use plastics. During the OUAT event, he highlighted the state’s ban on single-use plastics and promoted biodegradable alternatives, aligning with India’s Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2024. CM Majhi also launched the State Clean Air Programme to improve air quality in urban areas, reinforcing Odisha’s commitment to a pollution-free future.
What Are Odisha’s Future Environmental Goals?
Odisha’s government outlined ambitious plans for 2025, including stricter plastic waste management and expanded green initiatives like the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI). The state aims to sustain its afforestation momentum and enhance coastal conservation, particularly for vulnerable ecosystems like Chilika Lake.
What Was the Impact of World Environment Day 2025 in Odisha?
Odisha’s World Environment Day 2025 initiatives had a tangible impact, with millions participating in tree-planting and cleanup drives. Beach cleanups in Puri and other coastal areas removed thousands of kilograms of plastic waste, protecting marine life. The state honored 185 Prakriti Mitra and 211 Prakriti Bandhu award winners for their conservation efforts.
Odisha’s initiatives align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on climate action and ecosystem restoration. By addressing plastic pollution and promoting afforestation, the state contributes to global efforts to keep warming below 1.5°C.
