MP CM Mohan Yadav urges revival of traditional eco-values to protect planet

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Thursday called for collective responsibility in protecting the environment, emphasizing the importance of reviving traditional Indian practices such as recycling and reusing.

His remarks came during a state-level event marking World Environment Day and Ganga Dussehra in Bhopal.

Highlighting the deep-rooted connection between Indian culture and nature, Yadav said, “In our culture, one tree is considered equivalent to a hundred sons. This comparison underlines the spiritual value and life-giving importance of trees in Indian thought.”

The Chief Minister underlined the need for sustainable practices to benefit future generations. “Everyone must take responsibility to hand over a greener earth and cleaner environment to the next generation,” he said.

Linking environmental consciousness with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s national initiatives, Yadav noted that the campaign ‘One tree in mother's name’ was being launched across Madhya Pradesh. He also stressed the significance of this year’s World Environment Day theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” and urged citizens to adopt clean energy, reduce plastic use, improve air quality, and conserve water.

Detailing the state’s efforts in water conservation, Yadav announced, “MP has completed the construction of over 75,000 farm ponds, surpassing the target of 60,000 under the ‘Water-Ganga Conservation Campaign’.” He added that 95,500 wells have been recharged and 1,225 ‘Amrit Sarovars’ rejuvenated in the past three months.

Yadav also highlighted the expansion of irrigation facilities in the state, stating that irrigated land has increased from 7 lakh hectares in 2002-03 to 55 lakh hectares at present. He cited significant developments like the Ken-Betwa river linking project and resolution of a water-sharing dispute with Rajasthan through the Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal initiative.

He also spoke about the innovative Tapi Mega Recharge Project, launched jointly with Maharashtra. “The Tapi Mega Recharge Project, approved with Maharashtra, will naturally recharge groundwater and irrigate 2 lakh hectares in both states—marking it as a globally unique initiative,” he said.

To mark the occasion, the Chief Minister planted Sindoor, Raktachandan, and Amla saplings at the Kushabhau Thakre Auditorium premises. He also launched the Integrated Environmental Management Portal, released the State Wetland Atlas, and unveiled a short film on the newly launched platform.

BJP state president VD Sharma appealed to citizens to actively participate in the “One Tree in Mother's Name” campaign. State minister Dilip Ahirwar termed environmental protection as “one of the most critical challenges facing the world today.”