Odisha CM Urges Citizens to End Plastic Pollution, Vows 7.5 Crore Tree Plantation Drive

Bhubaneswar: June 5, 2025 – On the occasion of World Environment Day, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi called upon citizens to commit themselves to ending plastic pollution and nurturing a cleaner, healthier environment. Addressing the state-level event in Bhubaneswar on Thursday, Majhi emphasized the urgent need for a mass movement against plastic waste, particularly single-use plastics, which he identified as a major threat to climate stability, biodiversity, and public health.

“Today, let us pledge to eliminate plastic pollution and create a healthier, cleaner environment for our citizens,” Majhi said, underlining the importance of individual responsibility in effecting societal change.

He noted that excessive plastic use has led to three major challenges: climate change acceleration, erosion and pollution of land, water and biodiversity, and a growing garbage crisis. In response, the state government has undertaken proactive measures including bans on single-use plastics, promotion of sustainable alternatives, and enhancement of solid waste management systems.

Highlighting the government’s green initiatives, CM Majhi announced an ambitious plan to plant 7.5 crore trees in a year. He also pointed out that more than 6.5 crore trees have already been planted under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.

To further bolster environmental protection, the state has rolled out the State Clean Air Programme aimed at reducing air pollution in densely populated urban areas and improving air quality across the board. Majhi claimed that under the new BJP government’s leadership, Odisha’s forest and tree cover has increased by 560 square kilometers, making it the fourth highest gain among Indian states.

In a significant development, he also announced the formal recognition of Similipal as India’s 107th National Park, accompanied by the launch of the ‘Aam Similipal’ initiative with an investment of ₹50 crore to conserve its rich wildlife and flora.

The Chief Minister also congratulated 185 ‘Prakriti Mitra’ and 211 ‘Prakriti Duta’ awardees for their exceptional environmental conservation efforts. Schools, teachers, and students who contributed to the eco-model exhibition on “Ending Plastic Pollution” and those honoured with the Best Eco-Club Award were also acknowledged.

Majhi concluded by reiterating his government’s commitment to creating a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable Odisha, starting from every household and extending to every forest and water body across the state.