Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Thursday launched the state-level campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0’ on the occasion of World Environment Day 2026, reaffirming the state’s commitment to environmental conservation, sustainable development and green energy expansion. Addressing a large gathering at the Kushabhau Thakre Auditorium in Bhopal, the Chief Minister emphasized that India’s cultural traditions and way of life have always remained deeply connected with nature and environmental protection.
The event witnessed the release of circular economy course modules, documentation of 500 historic stepwells across 16 districts, recognition of environmental achievers, and discussions on sustainable development initiatives being undertaken across Madhya Pradesh.
‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0’ Campaign Launched
Launching the second phase of the tree plantation initiative inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, CM Yadav said environmental protection is not merely a government responsibility but an integral part of Indian culture and daily life.
The campaign encourages citizens to plant a tree in the name of their mothers, symbolizing gratitude towards both motherhood and nature.
The Chief Minister noted that India’s civilizational values have always emphasized harmony with the environment and sustainable coexistence with natural resources.
Five Circular Economy Modules Released
During the programme, Dr. Yadav released five educational course modules related to the circular economy, aimed at promoting sustainable resource management and reducing waste generation.
The modules are expected to strengthen awareness regarding recycling, resource efficiency, waste minimisation and sustainable production practices among institutions, industries and citizens.
Documentation of 500 Stepwells Across 16 Districts Unveiled
A major highlight of the event was the release of documentation related to 500 stepwells located across 16 districts of Madhya Pradesh.
The initiative has been undertaken jointly by EPCO and INTACH under the state’s Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan, which focuses on conservation and restoration of traditional water bodies.
The documentation aims to preserve the historical, architectural and ecological significance of these stepwells while promoting water conservation efforts.
Exhibition Showcases Environmental Innovations
The Chief Minister also visited a special exhibition displaying innovative projects related to:
- Environmental conservation
- Circular economy initiatives
- Water conservation technologies
- Sustainable development models
- Green resource management
The exhibition highlighted emerging solutions for addressing environmental challenges and promoting ecological sustainability.
11 State-Level Environment Awards Presented
Recognising exemplary contributions toward environmental protection and sustainable development, Dr. Yadav presented 11 State Environment Awards for 2024-25 across eight categories.
The awards honoured:
- Industrial units
- Educational institutions
- Social organisations
- Individual environmental champions
The recipients were recognised for their efforts in pollution control, environmental conservation and sustainable development practices.
“Our Lifestyle Is Incomplete Without Nature”
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister remarked that Indian traditions have always treated nature as sacred.
He said that every aspect of Indian culture reflects respect for the environment.
According to him, rituals such as Sandhyavandan, offerings to the Sun God and temple worship remain incomplete without elements of nature.
“Offerings to God Are Incomplete Without Tulsi”
Highlighting the significance of Tulsi in Indian traditions, Dr. Yadav said religious offerings remain incomplete without the sacred plant.
He noted that scientific research has also validated many traditional environmental practices followed in India.
Referring to renowned scientist Jagadish Chandra Bose, the Chief Minister recalled how Bose demonstrated that plants possess life, a belief deeply rooted in Indian culture for centuries.
He added that traditional practices, such as discouraging the plucking of leaves at night, reflect an inherent respect for nature and ecological balance.
PM Modi’s Environmental Vision at the Core of Campaign
Dr. Yadav stated that the campaign reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for environmental conservation and sustainable development.
He noted that Prime Minister Modi has completed 12 years in office and entered his 13th year as Prime Minister, and many environmental initiatives launched during this period have gained national and international recognition.
According to the Chief Minister, the world increasingly looks toward India for solutions related to environmental protection and sustainable living.
India Emerging Stronger Under PM Modi’s Leadership
The Chief Minister also highlighted India’s growing global stature in areas such as:
- Space technology
- Scientific research
- Sports
- Infrastructure
- National security
He said India’s progress under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership has strengthened the country’s position internationally while simultaneously advancing sustainable development goals.
Efforts to Overcome Global Energy Challenges
Speaking about contemporary challenges, Dr. Yadav observed that the world is currently facing energy-related uncertainties due to factors such as:
- Geopolitical tensions in West Asia
- Fluctuations in fuel prices
- Climate-related disruptions including El Niño
Despite these challenges, he said India has managed to maintain stability and continue advancing its energy transition agenda.
Bhopal Gas Tragedy Legacy and Environmental Restoration
The Chief Minister referred to the historic Bhopal Gas Tragedy as one of the world’s worst industrial disasters and a reminder of the consequences of environmental negligence.
He stated that the state government has successfully completed the disposal of long-pending waste from the former Union Carbide site after four decades and is now working toward proper management and redevelopment of the land.
Madhya Pradesh Accelerating Green Energy Expansion
Highlighting the state’s renewable energy ambitions, Dr. Yadav said Madhya Pradesh is making rapid progress in expanding green energy infrastructure.
According to him, work is advancing on projects with a combined capacity of 62 gigawatts of green energy, including:
- Solar power
- Wind energy
- Biomass projects
- Hydropower initiatives
Major renewable energy projects are also being developed in locations including Khajuraho and other parts of the state.
Wildlife Conservation Remains a Priority
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to wildlife conservation and biodiversity protection.
He highlighted several initiatives, including:
- Cheetah rehabilitation projects
- Translocation of wild buffaloes from Assam
- Habitat conservation efforts
Dr. Yadav said Madhya Pradesh continues to set benchmarks in wildlife conservation through a model based on coexistence between humans and nature.
Message of Shared Responsibility Toward Nature
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister invoked the teachings of Lord Krishna and the symbolism of the Kaliya episode, stating that natural resources such as air, water, earth, fire and sunlight belong equally to all living beings.
He emphasised that environmental protection must remain a collective responsibility and that sustainable development can only be achieved through harmony with nature.
