Dispur, June 5: ‘The crying need of the hour is to work relentlessly for the protection of nature.’ This was said by Governor of Assam, Prof.Jagdish Mukhi at a programme organised by the Environment and Forest Department on the occasion of World Environment Day at Guwahati Biotech Park at Amingaon in Kamrup on Sunday. Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Governor Prof.Mukhi said that the environment is plagued with many problems, including pollution and the way out is to do away with fossil fuel and to go in for clean and renewable energy, including solar energy to reduce pollution. Prof. Mukhi said that the present state government has been according top priority towards the protection of the environment through a slew of initiatives. Speaking as guest of honour, Minister for Environment and Forest, Parimal Suklabaidya said there has been a rise in wildlife population and the green cover in the state following a host of initiatives to protect the environment. He mentioned about the steps taken by the government to declare Raimona and Dehing Patkai as National Parks. Chairman, Assam Pollution Control Board, Dr. Arup Kumar Misra said the World Environment Day has to be observed not only on June 5 but also throughout the year. Deputy Commissioner, Kamrup, Kailash Kartik N said Chief Minister Dr.Himanta Biswa Sarma and Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan jointly launched the ‘Shyamolima Kamrup’ (Verdant Kamrup) scheme under which 30 lakh saplings will be planted within three years. PCCF cum HoFF, MK Yadava dwelt at length on the importance and significance of the World Environment Day. He felicitated noted nature conservationist, Dr.Purnima Devi Barman on the occasion. Prizes were given away to the winners of the painting competition organised by the Environment and Forest department and Pollution Control Board on the occasion of World Environment Day. Earlier, Governor Prof.Mukhi and Forest Minister, Suklabaidya planted saplings in the Guwahati Biotech Park premises. (RELEASE)
