Uttarakhand CM Dhami participates in seminar on climate change and renewable energy solutions

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the seminar titled "Climate Change and Renewable Energy—Challenges and Solutions" at Wadia Institute.

Addressing the gathering, he emphasized that climate change is a pressing global issue. Reflecting on last year's summer, he noted that rising temperatures in several mountainous areas, including Dehradun, highlight the impact of climate change.

"At such a time, it is a commendable effort to spread awareness about climate change and discuss its solutions in depth. This seminar is not only an opportunity to understand the challenges of climate change but also a unique platform to strengthen our resolve towards the environment," he stated.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the state government is taking proactive measures to promote environmental sustainability. Under the "Hariyali Mission," lakhs of saplings are being planted across Uttarakhand.

Additionally, the "Jal Shakti Abhiyan" aims to restore ponds and traditional water sources in 1,000 villages, reinforcing water conservation efforts.

He further elaborated on initiatives for water resource management. "Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority has also been formed, under which 5,500 water sources and 292 tributary rivers have been identified and treated. With the help of the Wadia Institute, we have also established the Glacier Study Centre so that we can understand the signals given by nature and work by making effective policies to prevent its erosion," he said.

Highlighting the state's commitment to sustainability, the Chief Minister mentioned that the 38th National Games were organized under the theme of "Green Games."

As part of this initiative, 2.77 hectares of forest land were dedicated as "Khel Van," where one Rudraksha plant was planted for each medal-winning athlete. He also pointed out Uttarakhand’s pioneering effort in assessing environmental contributions by introducing the Gross Environment Product (GEP) index, modeled on GDP.

"Green energy is being encouraged on a large scale in place of fossil-based fuels," he added. Under the "New Solar Energy Policy," the state aims to achieve 1,400 MW of solar capacity by 2027.

Many residents are adopting solar energy by utilizing subsidies provided through the "PM Suryaghar Yojana" and "Chief Minister Solar Self-Employment Scheme," he further stated.