Dehradun: On the occasion of World Tiger Day, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that public participation is the key to effectively eliminating single-use plastic. Addressing a state-level workshop, he emphasized that the objective cannot be achieved through government efforts alone and urged every citizen to actively contribute to the campaign.
During the event, the Chief Minister unveiled illustrations and postcards themed on tiger conservation. He also honored individuals who displayed exceptional courage during human-wildlife conflict incidents and those who made significant contributions to wildlife conservation.
Dhami said that the tiger is not just a wild animal but a symbol of biodiversity and a balanced ecosystem. He stressed that protecting forests is essential to safeguarding tigers and maintaining ecological balance. He noted that Uttarakhand enjoys a distinct identity across the country because of its rich forest cover and protected reserves such as Corbett Tiger Reserve and Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
The Chief Minister warned that single-use plastic poses a serious threat to rivers, forests, soil, water sources, and wildlife. He called for extensive public awareness campaigns to ensure an effective ban on its use. He added that the state government is conducting special drives to make the Char Dham pilgrimage routes and major tourist destinations plastic-free while also promoting the scientific management and recycling of plastic waste.
Appealing to the public, Dhami encouraged people to use cloth and jute bags instead of plastic. He also urged pilgrims and tourists not to litter natural sites with plastic or other waste. Calling on youth, self-help groups, and social organizations, he appealed for the campaign to be transformed into a people’s movement.
