Earth Day: Chief Minister of Haryana, Manohar Lal, underscores the cultural reverence for the earth, stating, “In Indian culture, we consider the earth as our mother and worship her.” He emphasizes the imperative of imparting environmental values to future generations, recognizing the interconnectedness of human well-being and the health of the planet.
As the world prepares to celebrate Earth Day on April 22, 2024, the official theme of “Planet vs. Plastics” resonates deeply with global efforts to combat plastic pollution & promote sustainability. Earth Day, first observed in 1970, has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon, with events coordinated by EARTHDAY.ORG engaging over 1 billion people in more than 193 countries.
The history of Earth Day is rooted in grassroots activism and environmental advocacy. Inspired by peace activist John McConnell’s proposal to honor the Earth, United States Senator Gaylord Nelson spearheaded the idea of a nationwide environmental teach-in on April 22, 1970. The inaugural Earth Day mobilized over 20 million people, marking the largest single-day protest in history.
Since then, Earth Day has grown into a global movement, catalyzing significant environmental achievements such as the signing of the landmark Paris Agreement in 2016. Communities worldwide engage in Earth Day Week actions, focusing on environmental issues and collective action for positive change.
In 2020, Earth Day witnessed over 100 million people participating in online mobilizations, highlighting the ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. While Earth Day serves as an annual reminder of our responsibility to protect the planet, the journey towards a greener and more resilient future continues beyond this day.
As Chief Minister Manohar Lal’s words echo the sentiments of Earth Day, his emphasis on earth worship and environmental values underscores the importance of preserving our planet for future generations. Together, let us strive to create a sustainable and thriving world for all.
