Public participation crucial for environmental protection, developed India: Jyotiraditya Scindia

Bhopal, June 27 (IANS): Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Saturday said environmental conservation must become a people's movement, asserting that a developed India can only be built by striking a balance between economic growth and the protection of natural resources.

Addressing a gathering after launching the 'Jal Ganga Sanvardhan Abhiyan – Jan Sanrakshan Ka Jan Andolan' at the origin of the Kuno River in Madhya Pradesh's Guna district, Scindia said public participation was the key to conserving water, forests and land.

“Environmental protection is not merely a campaign but our responsibility towards future generations. Conservation of water, forests and land is possible only through public participation, and every citizen must play an active role by planting trees and protecting water sources,” the Union Minister said.

The launch of the campaign coincided with a plantation drive under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative, during which Scindia planted 700 saplings at Kanja village. The campaign seeks to encourage community participation in water conservation while expanding green cover in the region.

Referring to the Centre's environmental initiatives, Scindia said the plantation campaign launched by the Prime Minister had evolved into a nationwide movement that symbolises a commitment to nature and future generations.

He urged people to ensure the survival of planted saplings, saying conservation efforts would succeed only if citizens remained actively involved beyond symbolic plantation drives.

As part of the programme, the Union Minister inaugurated a check dam constructed in Chinera village at a cost of Rs 17.98 lakh. He said strengthening water-harvesting infrastructure and conserving natural water bodies were essential to improving groundwater recharge and ensuring water security for rural communities.

Scindia also inaugurated a 4.5 MW solar power plant at Khutiyawad, developed at a cost of Rs 20 crore. The facility is expected to generate around 7.5 million units of clean electricity annually and contribute to the country's renewable energy capacity.

Linking renewable energy with the broader vision of sustainable development, Scindia said clean energy projects would reduce dependence on conventional fuels while supporting India's goal of self-reliance.

“A developed India can only be built by maintaining a balance between development and environmental conservation. Expanding green cover, conserving water resources and promoting renewable energy are the foundations of sustainable growth,” he said.