Uttarakhand CM Dhami extends greetings on World Environment Day, focuses on mantra of harmonising "ecology and economy"
Dehradun, June 5
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday extended wishes on the occasion of World Environment Day, while focusing on the mantra of harmonising "Ecology and Economy", which is driving the state in a new direction of development.
In an 'X' post, CM Dhami stressed that, in line with this vision, Uttarakhand has become the first state in the country to implement the Gross Environment Product (GEP) through which both environmental conservation and economic development are being achieved together.
"Heartiest greetings and best wishes to all on World Environment Day. The conservation of nature is not only our responsibility but also the cornerstone of a secure future for the coming generations. Our government is moving forward in a new direction of development with the mantra of harmonizing "Ecology and Economy." In line with this vision, Uttarakhand has become the first state in the country to implement the Gross Environment Product (GEP), through which environmental conservation and economic development are being advanced together," Dhami wrote on 'X'.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended greetings on World Environment Day while lauding the efforts of the people dedicated to environmental conservation. Focusing on the steps taken by the Central government and the country towards protecting the environment, PM Modi stated that the key successes include the expansion of green cover area and an increase in the population of several animals.
"Best wishes to everyone on World Environment Day. I would like to applaud all those passionate about environmental conservation. This is a day to reaffirm our commitment to protecting our environment and furthering growth that is sustainable. Numerous efforts by our Government over the last decade highlight our work in this direction. Some of India's key successes include expanding green cover and a rise in the population of several animals. The people of India have shown how collective efforts, policies, belief in science and innovation can improve our environment," PM Modi said.
World Environment Day (WED) is observed every year on June 5. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972 during the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment. The first celebration was held in 1973, with the theme "Only One Earth." Each year, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) selects a specific environmental theme and designates a global host country to spotlight a major environmental issue. This approach helps focus international attention and action on critical environmental challenges.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good intentions, but I'm a bit skeptical. We've seen many environmental promises before. How will GEP actually be measured? Who monitors it? And will it really stop the kind of deforestation we've seen for hydro projects in Uttarakhand? These are the questions that matter, not just slogans.
Impressive to see India taking bold steps on environmental accounting. The GEP framework could be a model for other developing nations balancing growth with green goals. PM Modi's mention of expanding green cover and increased wildlife populations is also encouraging—data we don't always hear about internationally.
As someone from Uttarakhand, I appreciate the focus on ecology, but we need concrete actions on the ground. Our villages still struggle with waste management and our rivers are polluted. GEP is a good framework but it needs to translate into cleaner air, water, and better livelihoods for locals. Hope the CM follows through! 🙏
World Environment Day is a reminder that we all share one planet. India's leadership on this front—especially the National Clean Air Programme and the push for renewable energy—deserves recognition. Though I'd love to see more transparency on how GEP metrics are calculated and enforced.
I'm all for development, but we must not forget that the Himalayas are fragile. Uttarakhand's forests and rivers are our lifeline. If GEP truly values nature's services, then it should mean stricter protection for ecologically sensitive zones. Let's see if this translates into real policy changes, not just press releases.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.