CM Dhami calls for ecology-economy balance, urges public to keep Uttarakhand plastic-free
Dehradun, July 29
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday participated in a state-level consultation workshop on the effective implementation and enforcement of the single-use plastic ban, organised on the occasion of Global Tiger Day at Hyatt Centric, Dehradun.
The Chief Minister stressed the need to protect forests and maintain a balance between ecology and economy, saying that safeguarding forests is essential for the well-being of the entire ecosystem and the conservation of tigers.
Speaking on the occasion, CM Dhami said, "This is a really special day for us. If our forests remain safe, the entire ecology will prosper. When the entire ecology prospers, tigers will remain safe. When the tigers remain safe, the balance in nature will remain secure. We always say that there should be a balance between ecology and economy."
Later, speaking to the reporters, the chief minister called for greater public awareness and participation in the campaign against single-use plastic, urging tourists to enjoy their travels responsibly and avoid littering.
"Today is World Tiger Day. On this occasion, the Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board has organised a seminar here focusing on the ban on single-use plastic and its effective implementation. This seminar will certainly help raise awareness among everyone. People visit from various places; we urge them to fully enjoy their travels and visit different locations, but to ensure they do not leave any litter behind. Additionally, we are taking initiatives to involve the younger generation in the plastic-free campaign," CM Dhami told reporters.
International Tiger Day, observed every year on 29 July, highlights the global importance of tiger conservation. For India, it reaffirms the Government's long-standing commitment to science-based conservation and sustainable development.
The day also showcases India's remarkable conservation achievements. Today, India is home to the world's largest wild tiger population, accounting for nearly 70 per cent of all wild tigers globally.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally a CM who talks about ecology AND economy together! That's the real balance we need. But I hope this isn't just another seminar with no follow-up action. We need strict fines for single-use plastic at tourist spots, not just awareness campaigns. Dhanyawaad for the effort though! 🙏
As someone who visited Uttarakhand last year, I was impressed by the cleanliness in some areas but shocked by the plastic waste in others. It's good to see leadership taking this seriously. Sustainable tourism is the only way forward - for the tigers, the forests, and the local economy. 🐅🌿
Good message, but let's be real - how many times have we heard 'plastic-free Uttarakhand'? The real problem is the lack of waste management infrastructure in remote villages. Plus, why aren't we banning plastic packaging in supermarkets across the state? One step at a time I suppose. 😊
Impressive focus on tiger conservation. India's success story with Project Tiger is something to be proud of - from just 1800 tigers to over 3000 now. Keeping Uttarakhand plastic-free will directly benefit the Corbett and Rajaji reserves. Tourism and ecology CAN coexist with proper planning. 🐯
The CM is right - ecology and economy go hand in hand. I run a small homestay in Nainital and we've banned all plastic bottles, giving guests copper bottles instead. Tourists appreciate it! But the government needs to help small businesses like ours with alternatives. Banning is easy, providing options is key. 🏔
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