PM Modi Highlights Gujarat’s Green Initiatives In Mann Ki Baat

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Gujarat’s ongoing environmental initiatives, particularly those aimed at fostering a greener India, with special attention to the Kutch region.

PM Modi commended the state’s dedication to protecting and nurturing trees and plants. He also urged citizens to take an active role in expanding these efforts throughout Gujarat.

PM Modi highlighted notable projects, including the swift advancement of mangrove plantation programmes in the Kori Creek area.

He also referred to the creation of a Mangrove Learning Centre, intended to support local environmental protection and promote sustainable development practices.

Underlining the importance of greenery, the Prime Minister stated that trees and plants, wherever they exist, benefit all living beings and are essential for maintaining ecological balance.

Through his remarks, PM Modi emphasised the vital role of citizen participation in preserving ecosystems. He highlighted the importance of tackling climate change and building a sustainable future.

The Prime Minister called on every individual to contribute to India’s green initiatives.

Gujarat has emerged as a national frontrunner in environmental conservation. The state has implemented a range of strategies covering coastal protection, ecosystem restoration, and renewable energy development.

The state has notably expanded its mangrove cover, with more than 19,000 hectares afforested under the central government’s MISHTI scheme.

This achievement has placed Gujarat at the forefront nationally. Over two years, 19,020 hectares of mangroves have been planted. This brings the state’s total mangrove area to 1,175 square kilometres, second only to the Sundarbans.

In the field of renewable energy, Gujarat leads India with a total installed capacity of 51,869 MW as of October 2024. Of this, 19,421.89 MW comes from solar power. Wind energy contributes 13,514.68 MW to the total capacity.

The state’s Renewable Energy Policy-2023 encourages small-scale projects through fixed tariffs and simplified approvals, supporting growth in the sector.

To tackle plastic pollution, Gujarat has, however, conducted extensive coastal clean-up campaigns.

On International Coastal Cleanup Day, more than 51,500 kg of waste, collected and scientifically processed across ten coastal locations, including Dwarka, Shivrajpur, and Dumas.

These initiatives are coordinated by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board, local municipalities, forest authorities, NGOs, and industries. They highlight the importance of citizen engagement and responsible waste management.

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