Environment – Himachal Governor Urges Youth to Lead Green and Drug-Free Future
Environment – Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta has called for greater public involvement in environmental protection, saying that every tree planted and cared for today will serve as a valuable gift for future generations. Addressing students and citizens, he stressed that protecting nature should become a collective responsibility while encouraging young people to contribute to building a healthier and drug-free society.
Plantation Drive Highlights Collective Responsibility
The Governor made these remarks during a plantation campaign held at APG Shimla University on Monday. The programme was organised jointly by the university and the Nishkam Srijan Foundation as part of the “Har Ped, Himachal Ka Abhiman – Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign. He said environmental conservation cannot succeed through government efforts alone and requires active participation from communities, educational institutions, and individuals.
Universities Should Promote Sustainable Values
Speaking to students and faculty members, Gupta said higher education institutions have an important role in shaping environmentally conscious citizens. According to him, universities should encourage students to develop a sense of social responsibility along with academic excellence. He noted that educational campuses can become examples of sustainable development by promoting environmental awareness and long-term conservation practices.
Caring for Saplings Is as Important as Planting Them
The Governor underlined that tree plantation should not be treated as a ceremonial activity carried out for a single day. Instead, he said, real success is achieved only when saplings receive continuous care and eventually grow into healthy trees. He encouraged participants to remain committed to nurturing every plant, emphasizing that lasting environmental benefits depend on sustained efforts rather than symbolic gestures.
Campaign Reflects Cultural and Environmental Values
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s nationwide “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, Gupta said the campaign combines environmental responsibility with India’s cultural traditions. He observed that dedicating a tree to one’s mother represents gratitude toward motherhood while also expressing respect for nature and the nation. According to him, such initiatives inspire people to strengthen their commitment to preserving the environment for coming generations.
Mission LiFE Encourages Responsible Living
The Governor also highlighted the importance of the Prime Minister’s Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). He said everyday actions such as conserving water, reducing plastic consumption, improving energy efficiency, and planting trees can collectively support sustainable development. He encouraged citizens to adopt environmentally responsible habits in their daily lives, noting that even small individual contributions can create a significant positive impact when practiced widely.
Youth Encouraged to Leave a Lasting Legacy
Describing young people as India’s greatest asset, Gupta urged students to take responsibility for at least one sapling during their years of study. He said that by caring for the plant until it becomes a mature tree, students can leave behind a meaningful reminder of their contribution to society. He added that returning to their university in the future and seeing the tree flourishing would symbolize their commitment to environmental protection.
Appeal for a Drug-Free Society
Alongside environmental conservation, the Governor also addressed the issue of substance abuse among young people. Welcoming the launch of the Prime Minister’s “Nasha Mukt Yuva – Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan,” he appealed to students to stay away from drugs and help spread awareness about their harmful effects. He said the vision of a developed India depends on a healthy, responsible, and empowered youth population capable of contributing positively to society.
Combined Efforts Can Strengthen the Nation
Concluding his address, Gupta encouraged students to become ambassadors for both environmental conservation and the campaign against substance abuse. He said these two responsibilities are closely linked to the country’s future, adding that protecting nature while promoting a drug-free society would help build stronger communities and support the broader goal of a developed India.