The annual general meeting of Yugantar Bharti, an environmental organization, concluded in Ranchi with a focus on environmental preservation, river revitalization, and youth engagement. Key discussions and resolutions included:
Salgi and Nagri: Potential Tourism Hubs
– Sarayu Roy, patron of Yugantar Bharti and MLA from Jamshedpur West, advocated for developing Salgi (Damodar River’s origin) and Nagri (Swarnrekha River’s origin) as model tourist destinations.
– He emphasized incorporating these sites into India’s tourism map while promoting cultural activities in these regions.
Urbanization and River Pollution
– Roy highlighted the challenges of urbanization, pointing out that 32% of Jharkhand’s population now resides in cities.
– He criticized inadequate government measures to address urban issues, especially the rising pollution in rivers like Swarnrekha, Kharkai, and Harmu.
Environmental Initiatives for 2024-2025
– A New “Environment Classroom” Series: Roy suggested launching a weekly program titled Environment Pathshala on Yugantar Bharti’s YouTube channel.
– Upcoming Events:
– Swarnrekha Festival (Jan 12-14, 2025)*
at multiple locations.
– Observance of key environmental days:
– World Water Day (March 22)
– Earth Day (April 22)
– Biodiversity Day (May 22)
– Damodar Festival (June 5)
– Anshul Sharan, President of Yugantar Bharti, shared the organization’s achievements in 2024, including events focusing on environmental awareness and river conservation.
Call for Youth and Community Engagement
– Retired DIG Sanjay Ranjan Singh stressed the need for involving schools in conservation efforts to revive dying rivers like Harmu.
– Environmentalist Prof. M.K. Jamuar emphasized creating “eco-clubs” in schools and fostering community participation.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on expanding the organization’s outreach and engaging more stakeholders in environmental conservation. Representatives from various districts and environmental groups also participated in the event.
This meeting highlights Yugantar Bharti’s commitment to safeguarding Jharkhand’s natural resources and fostering sustainable development through active community participation.