Minister for Forest, Environment and Ecology, Rajiv Jasrotia called for collective efforts to combat pollution and climate change for environment preservation.The Minister was speaking at a function, as a chief guest, organised by 'We The Human' an NGO to commemorate International Environment Week at Forest information Centre here today.Member Legislative Council Choudhary Vikram Randhawa, President Rotary Club Jammu Vipan Bhasin besides environmentalists and other concerned were also present on the occasion.The Minister said that pollution levels have reached to alarming levels and it is high time that efforts are put in to combat pollution. “Our nation is endowed with rich natural resources besides a favourable climate and the only thing needed is to strike cord between development and preservation of our environment,” he added.He said although onus lies with the forest department, but a change in the mindset of the society is also needed so that there is a collective fight against pollution and climate change.
Jasrotia said the forest department is manned by competent officers with requisite scientific know-how and exhorted that allied wings especially state pollution control board redouble their efforts for strict implementation of environment preservation laws.While appreciating the need for furthering cooperation between NGOs and government, he said collectively, “we have to bring a change.”MLC Vikram Randhawa, while addressing audiences, said that Swachh Bharat Mission launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a revolutionary step in the protection and cleaning of the environment.Later, a newsletter was also released by the dignitaries on the occasion followed by lectures from Environmentalists describing ways and means to save environment. On the occasion, two farmers Karan Singh and Ashwani Sharma were honoured with Lifetime achievement awards.