By TIOL News Service

NEW DELHI, JUNE 19, 2017: THE Union Environment Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan, has said that effective solutions are possible for desertification and active participation of the local people and cooperation at all levels are the tools to achieve this aim. The Minister urged the people of Haryana and the nation to become a large force of 'Paryavaran Rakshaks’ (environment protectors) to fight the challenges posed by desertification, global warming and climate change. 

Addressing the gathering at a function to inaugurate Swarna Jayanti Nature Camp and launching of nature awareness and Aravalli conservation campaign in Bhondsi, near Gurugram in Haryana yesterday, to celebrate the United Nations World Day to Combat Desertification 2017, the Minister highlighted that such days are in reality a reminder of the spirit symbolized by that Day. 

Dr. Harsh Vardhan pointed out that modern science & technology and environment can come together to protect the nature. He referred to the devising of a solar tree by the scientists on an area of 4 sq. metre, which generates 5 KW of electricity. In the context, the Minister also highlighted the leading role played by the Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, to form the International Solar Alliance at the Conference of Parties at Paris in 2015 and added that the Government was firmly committed to implement policies on solar energy. 

He urged the people to go back to their homes with the spirit imbibed at the celebrations and work with renewed vigour for afforestation as a means to combat desertification. He also said that the picturesque Aravalli range is venerable, not just for the people of Haryana, but the entire nation, and that the people should work with resolve and dedication to make Aravallis more beautiful. The Minister added that the Central government will extend all possible support to any scheme formulated to realize the vision of enhancing the beauty of the Aravalli range. He reiterated that the people should concentrate on taking small steps to protect the environment. He reminded the gathering not to forget the lessons of environment protection imparted to us by our ancestors and in fact, to use the lessons to protect the nature.