ITANAGAR, 5 Jun: Governor KT Parnaik said that protecting nature is a collective responsibility, and urged every citizen to actively contribute towards increasing the state’s green cover.

Participating in a plantation programme at the Raj Bhavan here on Wednesday to mark the World Environment Day, the governor stressed the need for extensive plantation drives in

 urban areas, where rapid development often comes at the cost of natural vegetation. He suggested that for every tree felled, at least 10 saplings should be planted and nurtured to maintain ecological balance and safeguard the environment for future generations.

The governor said that tree plantation should become a way of life, rather than being confined to occasions such as the World Environment Day or Van Mahotsav.

He encouraged communities, educational institutions, government departments, and social organisations to incorporate plantation activities into every celebration and public event, transforming each occasion into an opportunity to give back to nature.

The governor urged the people of the state to combine plantation efforts with cleanliness and environmental awareness drives. He also encouraged citizens to adopt mindful and sustainable practices in their daily lives, including conserving natural resources, reducing waste, and promoting eco-friendly habits.

Describing Arunachal Pradesh as one of India’s richest repositories of biodiversity and natural beauty, the governor appealed to the people to preserve and strengthen this invaluable heritage.

He said the responsibility of protecting the environment rests with every generation, and that today’s efforts will determine the quality of life enjoyed by future generations.

“Let us join hands to nurture nature, protect our forests, and enrich our environment. Together, we can preserve the pristine natural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh and build a cleaner, greener, healthier, and more resilient future for all,” the governor said. (Lok Bhavan)