Karnataka Governor seeks collective action to protect, preserve and sustain the environment

Bengaluru: Governor of Karnataka Thaawarchand Gehlot has expressed the view that as a people, we must awaken a renewed consciousness — rooted in love and respect for nature, simplicity in lifestyle, and reverence for the forests.”

He was addressing the Bangalore Sustainability Summit recently as its chief guest.

Speaking at the high-level summit themed “Advancing Sustainable Development Goals: Enhancing the Impact of Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships through Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration”, jointly organized by O.P. Jindal Global University and RV University, the Governor emphasized the urgent need for environmental protection amidst growing concerns over pollution and dwindling natural resources.

“The recent challenges, especially the oxygen crisis, have underlined the critical importance of protecting our environment. Sustainable development is deeply embedded in our national ethos and governance philosophy,” the Governor said.

He highlighted that India has been committed to sustainable progress through landmark initiatives such as Make in India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, National Rural Drinking Water Programme, National Health Mission (Urban and Rural), Digital India, Deendayal Upadhyay Gram Jyoti Yojana, Kaushal Bharat, and the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana.

“States play a pivotal role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and several state-level schemes are contributing meaningfully to this national vision,” he added.

Praising Bengaluru as a hub of innovation and technological advancement, the Governor noted that the city also grapples with challenges such as rapid urbanisation, climate change, and pressure on natural resources.

“It is encouraging to see this summit focus on the power of knowledge sharing and cross-sector collaboration to tackle these challenges and drive impact,” he said.

He also lauded the efforts of Indian universities in promoting sustainable practices and preserving local biodiversity.

“Institutions across the country are becoming custodians of environmental responsibility, reflecting the true spirit of World Environment Day,” he said.

Acknowledging the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Governor Gehlot cited national campaigns such as Clean Air, Save Water, Save Energy, Grow More Plants, and Green Cities as instrumental in spreading environmental awareness among citizens.

He also commended O.P. Jindal Global University for its commitment to sustainability.

“Since its inception in 2009, the university has consistently demonstrated its dedication to the SDGs. Its top ranking in the Ministry of Education’s Clean Campus Ranking are a testament to its environmental leadership and the critical role of youth in nation-building,” he said.

Concluding his address, Governor Gehlot made a heartfelt appeal, saying: “We must collectively embrace our responsibility to safeguard the environment. Only through unified action can we ensure a clean, healthy planet for future generations.”