Recently Minister for Agricultural Production and Rural Development Department, Javed Ahmad Dar, today underscored the challenges posed by rapid development and commercialisation while emphasising the critical need for environmental conservation and water management.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony of the “Watershed Yatra” at GDC Hira Nagar here, an initiative by the Department of Rural Development, Government of India, the Minister highlighted the growing environmental concerns due to urbanisation and industrial expansion.
The campaign was flagged off at the national level by Union Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
He stressed the urgency of preserving natural resources, particularly water bodies and forest cover, to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure sustainable growth.
He stressed the need for sustainable practices. “We are facing many challenges, but it is our duty to address them. We must plant more trees, conserve water and ensure our environment remains sustainable. Our department has several schemes, such as Amrit Sarovar, to improve water reservoirs and promote environmental health,” he added.
He said that the watershed yatra is a significant step towards a better future. He urged upon the students and local communities to actively participate in environmental conservation. “It is not just the duty of the department but also of every individual to preserve water bodies and maintain the environment. We are suffering from global warming, and it is our collective responsibility to address it,” he said.