• Environment protection is not just Govt’s responsibility, but a collective duty of all citizens, says the noted environmental activist

Noted environmental activist and Padma awardee Umashankar Pandey graced the World Environment Day celebrations at the Directorate General Defence Estates (DGDE) in New Delhi on June 05, 2025. The programme commenced with a tree plantation drive in which senior officials of the Defence Estates Department, staff members, and school children participated actively. It also featured discussions on various environmental topics, exhibitions, and an awareness rally.

In his address, Umashankar Pandey termed environment protection as not just the responsibility of the government, but a collective duty of all citizens. Efforts like water conservation and tree plantation at the grassroots level are the most significant contributions towards saving the planet, he said.

The Padma  awardee called upon all officials to take proactive steps towards environmental protection. He emphasised the urgent need for establishing a National Water University and informed that he has already submitted a proposal to the government for the same. He also highlighted the importance of setting up water libraries and water museums across the country.

Director General Defence Estates SN Gupta reiterated that environmental conservation is one of the top priorities of the Defence Estates Department. He enumerated several innovative initiatives undertaken by the department, including development of green zones, rainwater harvesting, and waste management.

Highlighting the department’s contribution to the Prime Minister’s vision of a clean and green India, Gupta stated that under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative, over 6.40 lakh trees have been planted by the Cantonment Boards. He highlighted that the Directorate was awarded Third Rank at the National Level by the Government in the Public Participation in Water Conservation Campaign, a testimony to its efforts in underground water conservation.

The programme concluded with a collective pledge to protect the environment. All senior officials of the department were present on the occasion.