NEW DELHI, June 17:
Asserting that desertification can be tackled effectively and solutions are possible, Union Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan today said active participation of locals and cooperation at all levels are the tools to achieve this aim.
Speaking at a function to inaugurate ‘Swarna Jayanti Nature Camp’ and launching of nature awareness and Aravalli conservation campaign in Bhondsi near Gurugram to celebrate the ‘United Nations World Day to Combat Desertification 2017’, the Minister highlighted that such days are in reality a reminder of the spirit symbolized by that Day.
The Minister urged the people to become a large force of ‘Paryavaran Rakshaks’ (environment protectors) to fight the challenges posed by desertification, global warming and climate change.
He pointed out that modern science and technology and environment can come together to protect the nature. He also highlighted the leading role played by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to form the International Solar Alliance at the Conference of Parties in Paris in 2015 and added that the Government was firmly committed to implementing policies on solar energy.
Dr Vardhan urged the people to go back to their homes with the spirit imbibed at the celebrations and work with renewed vigour for afforestation as a means to combat desertification.
He also said the picturesque Aravalli range is venerable, not just for the people of Haryana, but the entire nation, and that the people should work with resolve and dedication to make Aravallis more beautiful.
The Minister added that the Central Government will extend all possible support to any scheme formulated to realize the vision of enhancing the beauty of the Aravalli range. He reiterated that the people should concentrate on taking small steps to protect the environment.
Speaking on the occasion, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal said, ”Climate change is having an adverse impact on our lives and is also adding to the desertification of land.”
He stressed that afforestation can act as a bulwark to stop the process of desertification of land. A report prepared by Wildlife Institute of Dehradun titled “Mapping Aravallis” on the state of Aravallis was released to mark the occasion. A short film on the conservation of ‘Goraiya’ (house sparrow) was also screened. (UNI)
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