India joined the global community in observing World Environment Day 2025 on Thursday, with top leaders, environmentalists, and citizens reaffirming their commitment to protecting nature and combating plastic pollution — the official theme for this year.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media platform X to emphasize the need for stronger collective action. “This World Environment Day, let’s deepen our efforts towards protecting our planet and overcoming the challenges we face. I also compliment all those working at the grassroots to make our environment greener and better,” he wrote.
President Droupadi Murmu echoed similar sentiments, calling on citizens to renew their pledge to safeguard the Earth. “Every action for the environment makes a difference and our collective efforts can lead to a greener earth for future generations,” she said in her message.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged citizens to adopt sustainable habits in their everyday lives. “Protecting Mother Nature is not just a responsibility but a duty to our nation and future generations,” he noted.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted India’s strides in sustainable development, stating, “Bharat is achieving its sustainable development goals with remarkable speed under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi Ji to secure the environment. May this occasion further reinforce our resolve and alliance to build a better world.”
In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stressed the urgency of addressing environmental crises. “These difficult challenges have been created by humans, and naturally, humans will have to find a solution. That is why PM Modi has called upon the entire nation to build coordination and dialogue with nature,” he said, referring to the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign initiated by the Prime Minister.
Corporate leaders also voiced their support. Ashwin Muthiah, Founder and Chairman of AM International Holdings, Singapore, highlighted industrial efforts to reduce environmental impact. “Initiatives like SPIC’s transition to 100% natural gas as a raw material exemplify this, ensuring cost-efficiency while achieving our environmental goals,” he stated.
Gajendra Singh Rathore, Managing Director of Jungle Camps India, emphasized the intrinsic value of forests. “Our forests are not backdrops; they are living, breathing sanctuaries deserving of reverence, not extraction,” he remarked.
World Environment Day, celebrated every year on June 5 and led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), serves as the largest international platform for environmental awareness and action. Since its inception in 1973, the day has inspired countless environmental initiatives across the globe.
This year’s theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” aims to highlight the growing threat of plastic waste on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. The Republic of Korea, known for its leadership in green technologies and sustainability, has been designated the global host country for 2025.
From policy makers to grassroots activists, India’s World Environment Day message was unified and clear — environmental stewardship is not optional, but essential for securing a healthier future.
