Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami called for greater public participation in the campaign against single-use plastic during a state-level consultation workshop on the enforcement of the single-use plastic ban held in Dehradun on July 29.
The workshop, organised by the Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board at Hyatt Centric, Dehradun, was held to mark International Tiger Day, also known as Global Tiger Day. The event focused on strengthening awareness and improving the implementation of the single-use plastic ban while highlighting the connection between environmental protection, forest conservation and tiger protection.
CM Dhami Links Forest Protection With Tiger Conservation
Addressing the workshop, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stressed the importance of protecting forests to maintain a balance between ecology and the economy.
He said the health of the entire ecosystem depends on the protection of forests. According to the Chief Minister, when forests and the wider ecosystem remain healthy, tiger populations can also be protected, helping maintain the natural balance.
Dhami emphasised the interconnected relationship between forests, wildlife and the environment, reiterating the importance of maintaining a balance between ecology and economy.
Uttarakhand CM Urges Tourists to Keep Destinations Plastic-Free
Speaking to reporters, CM Dhami appealed to tourists and visitors to travel responsibly and avoid littering at tourist destinations.
He urged people visiting Uttarakhand to enjoy the state’s natural beauty and explore different destinations while ensuring they do not leave waste behind.
The Chief Minister’s appeal comes as Uttarakhand continues to focus on protecting its fragile Himalayan environment and managing the environmental impact of tourism.
His message to tourists focused on:
- Enjoying Uttarakhand’s natural beauty responsibly
- Avoiding littering at tourist destinations
- Keeping forests and public places clean
- Supporting the state’s plastic-free campaign
- Protecting the environment during travel
Public Awareness Key to Single-Use Plastic Ban
The Chief Minister highlighted the need for greater public awareness for the effective implementation of the single-use plastic ban.
The state-level consultation workshop was organised to discuss ways to improve enforcement of the ban and encourage wider participation in efforts to reduce plastic pollution.
The key focus areas include:
- Increasing public awareness about the harmful impact of single-use plastic
- Strengthening the implementation of the plastic ban
- Encouraging responsible tourism
- Preventing littering at tourist destinations
- Promoting greater community participation
- Involving young people in the plastic-free campaign
The initiative aims to encourage citizens, tourists and local communities to play an active role in keeping Uttarakhand clean and reducing plastic waste.
Focus on Involving Younger Generation in Plastic-Free Campaign
CM Dhami also highlighted the importance of involving the younger generation in efforts to make Uttarakhand plastic-free.
He said initiatives are being undertaken to engage young people in the campaign against plastic pollution. Greater participation from students and youth can help create long-term awareness about responsible waste management and environmental conservation.
The focus on youth participation is expected to help:
- Build environmental awareness among young people
- Encourage responsible waste management
- Promote sustainable habits from an early age
- Increase participation in plastic-free initiatives
- Create greater awareness about environmental protection
International Tiger Day Highlights Importance of Tiger Conservation
International Tiger Day, observed every year on July 29, aims to raise awareness about tiger conservation and the need to protect tiger habitats around the world.
The occasion also highlights the importance of protecting forests and natural ecosystems that support wildlife.
For India, the day underscores the country’s continued commitment to science-based tiger conservation and sustainable development.
Key facts about India’s role in tiger conservation:
- India is home to the world’s largest wild tiger population.
- The country accounts for nearly 70% of the global wild tiger population.
- Forest protection plays an important role in securing tiger habitats.
- Tiger conservation is closely linked to maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Forest Conservation Essential for Ecological Balance
The Uttarakhand government’s focus on forest protection and plastic pollution reflects the broader need to preserve the state’s natural ecosystems.
Forests provide critical habitats for wildlife, including tigers and other species, while also supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological stability. Reducing plastic pollution and preventing littering can further help protect these natural environments.
The workshop in Dehradun brought together key issues such as:
- Single-use plastic pollution
- Responsible tourism
- Forest conservation
- Tiger protection
- Wildlife conservation
- Public participation
- Sustainable development
By strengthening the implementation of the single-use plastic ban and encouraging public participation, Uttarakhand aims to support a cleaner and more sustainable environment while protecting its rich natural heritage.
Read also: Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Approves ₹62 Crore for Development Projects and Kumbh Mela 2027
