Vital to encourage research and innovation on environment-related subjects: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an article published in national dailies today, after he was conferred with the Champions of the Earth Award by the United Nations, termed environment protection as a “pressing challenge”. He said, “It is vital to encourage research and innovation on subjects relating to the environment and this is when more people will know about the pressing challenges of our times and ways to mitigate them.”
PM Modi expressing his concern for the environment said in his blog, “Today, human society stands at an important crossroads. The path that we take hereon will not only determine our well-being but also that of the generations who will inhabit our planet after us. The imbalances between our greed and necessities have led to grave ecological imbalances. We can either accept this, go ahead with things as if it is business as usual, or we can take corrective actions.”
He underlined the need to talk, write, debate, discuss and deliberate as much as possible on questions relating to the environment. It cautioned that people can either accept the pressing challenge that the environment faces today, go ahead with things as if it is business as usual, or take corrective actions.
He mentioned, “Leading lifestyles that are harmonious and sustainable are a part of our ethos. Once we realise how we are flag bearers of a rich tradition, it will automatically have a positive impact on our actions.”
He urged all the people to be proactive in working towards a sustainable environment. As a society we need to be aware of our strong links with environment. Societies that live in harmony will nurture, flourish and prosper.
PM Modi noted that while the world is talking about climate change, the call for climate justice has also reverberated from India. He defined climate justice as safeguarding the rights and interests of the poor and marginalised sections of society who are often the biggest sufferers from the menace of climate change.
On receiving the UN Champions of the Earth Award, he said the award is not for an individual, but a recognition of Indian culture and values. It was a proud moment for every Indian to see India’s proactive role in mitigating climate change being acknowledged and appreciated.
