Forest, Biology, and Environment Minister Eshwar B. Khandre recently emphasized the growing urgency for humans and wildlife to coexist peacefully. He noted that conflicts between human populations and wild animals are increasing significantly as forest areas shrink and residential zones expand.
Speaking at the golden jubilee celebrations of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) in Mysuru, Minister Khandre underscored wildlife’s crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. He called for widespread education, particularly for communities and children living near forest boundaries, on understanding animal behavior and the importance of harmonious coexistence. He urged NGOs and forest personnel to take the lead in this vital educational endeavor.
Minister Khandre sternly warned that human activities are the primary drivers of natural disasters. He stated, “Excessive borewell drilling, rampant tree felling, and the proliferation of high-rise buildings have led to a severe depletion of oxygen. The tragic losses witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic due to oxygen shortages serve as a stark reminder of environmental degradation’s consequences. If we fail to act decisively now, our future will be fraught with danger.”
Further elaborating on the impacts of climate change and global warming, the Minister cited devastating landslides in Shirur (Uttara Kannada) and Wayanad (Kerala) as examples. He stressed that such catastrophes can be avoided through robust environmental protection measures.
He also highlighted how climate change has dramatically altered rainfall patterns. “Rainfall that historically spread across a month now often occurs within a week; a week’s worth of rain falls in a single day, and sometimes a day’s rain pours down in just an hour, leading to severe floods,” the Minister explained, advocating strongly for extensive tree planting and vigilant forest conservation.
Mysuru Pledges to Become ‘Plastic-Free’
The Minister proudly announced that the Chief Minister has declared Mysuru a single-use plastic-free city, calling upon officials and citizens alike to collaborate in achieving this ambitious goal. He urged, “When you head to the market, make it a habit to carry a cloth bag and completely steer clear of plastic carry bags.”
Mr. Khandre also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, whose visionary leadership led to the enactment of numerous environmental and wildlife protection laws, instrumental in safeguarding India’s forests and ecosystems.
District In-charge Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, in his address, highlighted that environmental pollution control is now a fundamental aspect of modern science. He stated, “The health and livelihoods of our people are intrinsically linked to a healthy environment, and its protection is a collective responsibility.”
KSPCB Chairman P.M. Narendraswamy shared that the event aimed to significantly boost public awareness about environmental protection. He profoundly remarked, “The greatest legacy we can bestow upon the next generation is access to clean air, water, and food.”
Chamraj MLA K. Harish Gowda presided over the event.
Indira Priyadarshini Awards Honor Green Initiatives
During the ceremony, several institutions were recognized with the prestigious Indira Priyadarshini awards for their outstanding contributions to environmental protection. Honorees included Sri Jayachamarajendra College of Engineering, JSS Science and Technology University, Madilu Education and Rural Development Institution, dedicated green activist Keerthi D’Souza, Bharat Scouts and Guides (Kodagu chapter), and the Karnataka Rajya Vignana Parishat (Kodagu district committee).
Also present were MLAs Anikumar C. and G.T. Devegowda, MLCs D. Thimmaiah, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, K. Shivakumar, S.S. Lingaraju, KSPCB Member Secretary, Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikant Reddy, ZP CEO S. Yukesh Kumar, MCC Commissioner Sheikh Tanveer Asif, alongside various other officials and esteemed dignitaries.