Aizawl, June 11: Green Mizoram Day was observed in the state at different districts across the state. A total of 10,062 saplings, comprising 12 varieties of saplings were distributed to various districts, offices, and NGOs to be planted in their respective offices’ compound and in some selected locations in and around the state.
Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister TJ Lalnuntluanga gave an online message to the people of Mizoram and congratulated the Prize winner and applauded the commendable works done by Forest Department, and implored all the prize winners and stakeholders to continue their good works for future generation without any slacking off in their endeavors.
On the occasion of Green Mizoram Day, Chief Minister of Mizoram, Zoramthanga took a tweet and wrote, “For 23 years we have observed #GreenMizoramDay(started as Green Aizawl Day in 1998,evolved to Green Mizoram Day in 1999)to preserve ecological balance. Today, I request everyone to take new steps for Green Mizoram – for a better Mizoram. A little goes a long way”
For 23 years we have observed #GreenMizoramDay(started as Green Aizawl Day in 1998,evolved to Green Mizoram Day in 1999)to preserve ecological balance. Today, I request everyone to take new steps for Green Mizoram – for a better Mizoram. A little goes a long way@PrakashJavdekar pic.twitter.com/SXayxtRkmG
— Zoramthanga (@ZoramthangaCM) June 11, 2021
Minister in his speech, stressed the urgency of planting new trees and conservation of the existing green areas, to combat climate change and its impact. Perennial rivers and streams are now becoming fragmented and river sources are drying up as a result of deforestation and the practice of Jhum cultivation, he said. He lauded the efforts of the people of Mizoram for successfully organizing the tree planting ceremony and for their continued efforts in instilling the value of environmental conservation among the student community.
Minister also outlined that the need of the hour was to combat the effects of climate change through the conservation of forests, biodiversity, and water sources. He noted that the recent forest fires which ravaged the state were the biggest the state has experienced so far and the acute water scarcity faced by some areas of the state was a warning bell. He said that these events make environmental conservation a primacy that must be accorded utmost importance by all.
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J Lalnuntluanga also highlighted the trend of decreasing forest cover and biodiversity loss that Mizoram, along with the other the North East States, has suffered over the years. Stating that protecting our forests and wildlife at any cost is the need of the hour, especially given the recent outbreak of devastating forest fires in various parts of the State, the Minister encouraged those present to continue being active crusaders for the environment.
State Level and Aizawl District Level Fire Prevention Awards were also presented on the occasion. At the state level, the first prize was bagged by Mamit District, the second prize went to Serchhip District while the third prize was awarded to Siaha District for their efforts in fire prevention. Within Aizawl District, Sumsuih was awarded the Best Village for Fire Prevention while the second and third places went to Tachhip and Mualkhang villages.
