Protecting and Conserving the Environment is Our Collective Responsibility – Environment Minister Pankaja Munde

Awareness Program Against Single-Use Plastic Held at Siddhivinayak Temple Premises

Mumbai – Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Munde emphasized today that as responsible citizens of the country, it is our collective duty to protect and conserve the environment, use natural resources wisely, reduce pollution, and safeguard wildlife and plant species. She asserted that organizing such events at religious places is a significant step toward instilling eco-friendly habits and creating a cleaner, greener future for the next generation.

The minister was speaking at a public awareness program held in the premises of Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple to urge citizens to avoid the use of single-use plastics and spread awareness about its ban. Office bearers of the Siddhivinayak Temple Trust were also present at the event.

Minister Munde stated, “The menace of single-use plastic must be stopped. The rising use of single-use plastics is worsening the pollution crisis. We urgently need resolve, restraint, and concrete action to completely eliminate its usage.” She added that the government has taken significant steps at various times to curb the environmental hazards caused by single-use plastics. Her department has implemented effective policies and regulations for plastic waste management.

In addition to imposing restrictions on single-use plastics, awareness campaigns are being conducted in schools, colleges, and public places. Workshops, seminars, and educational activities are being used to spread the message of environmental preservation, she noted.

As part of the campaign, Minister Munde personally appealed to stall owners around the Siddhivinayak Temple to stop using plastic bags. She distributed cloth bags and encouraged the public to adopt a sustainable lifestyle. The temple premises were filled with informative posters and slogans promoting eco-consciousness. Minister Munde expressed confidence that if the government, organizations, and citizens work together, we will definitely witness positive environmental change. The Siddhivinayak Trust also pledged its support for future awareness programs regarding the plastic ban.