Mysore/Mysuru: Planting and watering of saplings marked World Environment Day celebrations at Suyog Hospital in Ramakrishnanagar  this morning.

Speaking after inaugurating the event, Star of Mysore and Mysuru Mithra Founder-Editor Dr. K.B. Ganapathy said, it is important for every citizen to take part in environment conservation, at a time when the entire world is facing the disastrous consequences of climate change.

“On World Environment Day, it is the duty of the society to come together for environmental protection. People must not just keep quiet after planting  saplings but must take constant care and nurture them until they grow. Several decades ago, when Dr. K.M. Munshi was the Union Minister for Forests and Environment, he had launched ‘Vanamahotsava’ campaign across the country with an objective of increasing forest cover. The launch of this campaign created nationwide public awareness about the importance of forest and environment conservation,” he said.

Pointing out that a  programme for increasing green cover at Chamundi foothill was initiated years ago, Dr. Ganapathy said, “We should not leave the responsibility of environment conservation to the Government alone. Every citizen must support the Government and other organisations working for increasing forest cover and conservation.”

Noting that seed balls were spread at Chamundi Hill sometime back, he said that following suggestions by a DCF, a major tree planting drive was conducted atop the Hill, which has yielded good results. “I too will throw seed balls around whenever I visit my estate at Kodagu. We should not simply sit  saying that  it is the job of the Government to protect the forests,” he said.

MUDA Chairman K. Marigowda, who presided, stressed on the need to grow plants for environment conservation and prevention of air pollution. Lauding Suyog Hospital for its green cover initiative, he said, “Financial support will be extended to Suyog Hospital which is working with other organisations for growing flower and fruit bearing plants along a stretch of Vishwamanava Double Road that runs through Kuvempunagar.”

Former MUDA Chairman H.V. Rajeev, who is involved in promotion of environmental protection through H.V. Rajeev Balaga, was conferred with ‘Vruksha Poshaka’ award on the occasion.

Dr. K.B. Ganapathy, who was conferred with an Hon. Doctorate by the University of Mysore and MUDA Chairman K. Marigowda were felicitated.

Veteran Littérateur Dr. C.P. Krishnakumar (CPK), former UoM Prasaranga Director K.T. Veerappa, former KSOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. N.S. Ramegowda, Suyog Hospital Chairman Dr. S.P. Yoganna, Wellness Expert Dr. B.R. Pai and others were present at the programme.