05 June,2026 05:35 PM IST | Lucknow | PTI
UP CM Yogi Adityanath addressing an event in Lucknow on the occasion environment day. Image courtesy: X
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said the world today is paying the price for neglecting the environment and stressed the need for collective efforts to protect nature.
During an event on the occasion of World Environment Day, the chief minister launched India's first airshed-based clean air initiative, the 'Uttar Pradesh Clean Air Management Project' -- a World Bank-supported initiative with an estimated cost of Rs 2,741 crore.
On the occasion, an agreement was exchanged with the World Bank in the presence of the chief minister.
He also unveiled the logo of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' plantation drive to fulfill the state's target of planting 35 crore saplings.
Uttar Pradesh Minister for Forest and Environment (Independent Charge) Arun Kumar Saxena was also present at the event.
Addressing the occasion, the chief minister lamented that humans have subjected the environment to great neglect, and "entire humanity is paying the price for this neglect today".
He said people in the age group of 40-50 years can perceive the gradual degradation of the environment and the changes in weather patterns during their lifetime.
He warned that such sea changes would have a major impact on states like Uttar Pradesh and India at large, where agriculture forms major part of the economy.
"If there is a change in the weather cycle, farmers will be affected most, and their income will be impacted," he said.
Adityanath said excessive rainfall or drought-like situations could lead to much hardship, ushering in food insecurity.
Adityanath said natural calamities are warning signs that point to environmental degradation, and efforts must be made to address the challenges before they became more severe.
He said India's ancient traditions emphasise the importance of protecting the environment. "Even the common Indian believes this is a part of their values. We have always considered ourselves children of Mother Earth."
The chief minister referred to Lord Ram's message about expressing gratitude towards the mother who gives birth and the land where one is born, saying that it remains relevant even today.
He said material achievements were meaningful only as long as a person is healthy, and the need of the hour for society at large is protecting the environment.
"Our concerns regarding the environment require us to look at our ancient texts and traditions, where the relationship and dialogue between humans and every living organism has been emphasised," he said.
Adityanath, also the Mahant of Gorakshapeeth, highlighted the interconnectedness of all species, citing examples from Hindu traditions.
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