The Minister of Science, Technology, and Environment, Animesh Debbarma, has called upon people from all sections of society to come forward in tackling plastic pollution.

Speaking at a program organized at Praga Bhavan on Thursday on the occasion of World Environment Day, he stated that single-use plastic is having a severe impact on the environment. He emphasized that widespread awareness about its harmful effects would benefit society, adding that students have a significant role to play in this effort. During the event, the Principal Secretary of the Forest Department, Rabindra Kumar Saml, highlighted the need for greater public participation in tree plantation drives and the protection of those trees. Director General of Police, Anurag, remarked that nature and the environment have been an inseparable part of human life since ancient times and remain so today. He stressed the necessity of collective efforts to prevent noise, air, and plastic pollution.

The welcome address at the event was delivered by Mahendra Singh, Director of the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment. The vote of thanks was given by Dr. Bishu Karmakar, Member Secretary of the Tripura State Pollution Control Board.

On the occasion of World Environment Day, with support from the Department of Science, Technology, and Environment, the Tripura State Pollution Control Board organized various programs. This year’s theme was ‘Beat Plastic Pollution Globally’. In line with this theme, a college-level debate competition was held on June 3, with participation of students of fromdifferentcollegesinthestate.OnJune4, a sit-and-draw competition for children was organized at Sukanta Academy. On the same day, a state- level school model exhibition was held with the theme ‘Wealth from Waste’. Additionally, under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative to promote afforestation and environmental conservation, over 500 saplings were distributed among students. On Thursday also, a public awareness rally on eliminating single-use plastic waste was also held from Sukanta Academy. Alongside the rally, a street play was staged through a tableau. The rally was inaugurated by the Minister of Science, Technology, and Environment, Animesh Debbarma. The rally marched through different streets of Agartala and culminated back at Sukanta Academy.