Telangana committed to environmental restoration: Forests minister Surekha

HYDERABAD: Stating that the responsibility to protect nature lies with everyone, Environment & Forests Minister Konda Surekha on Thursday emphasised that both government and public should work in unison to tackle the growing plastic crisis.
Speaking at an event organised by Telangana Pollution Control Board (TGPCB) to celebrate World Environment Day under theme 'Ending Plastic Pollution-Globally' at TGPCB's Sanathnagar office, the minister underscored the importance of eliminating single-use plastics (SUPs) and advocated the promotion of sustainable alternatives such as jute bags, paper products, cotton bags, stainless steel, and bamboo.
She also encouraged the use of public transport, solar energy and effective solid waste management as key sustainable practices.
'Plastic pollution is not just a local issue. It's an international threat to biodiversity, public health, food security and our future. Plastic does not degrade easily and it pollutes our land, rivers, and oceans for hundreds of years, threatening all life forms,' she added.

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Learn with AIFact CheckingText to SpeechAI Summary

Related Articles

Hans India

a day ago

• Hans India

Welfare Fund turns a boon for archakas, temple staff in state

As many as 18 Archakas and temple employees got over Rs 32 lakh under gratuity and medical benefits, thanks to the Archaka and Employees Welfare Fund started by the Endowments Department recently. Some of the employees got a benefit ranging from Rs 1 lakh to over Rs 6.5 lakh. The Archakas hailed the Endowments Minister Konda Surekha, stating that she had fulfilled the desires of priests and employees who have been working in the Endowment Department over the years. A special fund was set up for the welfare of priests and employees who were providing services in all temples for a long time. Endowment Minister Konda Surekha, Endowment Director Venkata Rao and other officials handed over the Archaka and Employment Welfare Fund cheques. Gratuity and medical assistance were provided to 18 employees through the Archaka Welfare Fund Trust. Konda Surekha handed over the cheque of Rs 32 lakh to the employees. Copies of the order were given to them as a farewell. Later, the minister felicitated the retired employees. Surekha explained that her government was committed to the welfare of Archakas and employees. She said that about 13,700 Archakas and other employees working in temples up to the level of Assistant Commissioner under the Endowment Department would benefit through this welfare trust. She said that posthumous or retirement gratuity would be given to priests and other employees. She said that posthumous gratuity would be given to the 'Dhoopa Deepa Naivedyam' priests. She said that this fund would be used to pay ex-gratia paid posthumously and for the expenses of last rites. Under this fund, employees will be provided with medical reimbursement, marriage scheme, upanayana scheme, house construction, purchase and repair scheme, education scheme, financial assistance scheme for disabled employees who cannot perform their duties. 'We are indebted to Endowment Department Minister Surekhamma. Thank you Konda Surekha for resolving the issue which has been pending for years. The minister has helped us immensely. It is heartening to note that the posthumous or retirement gratuity scheme for regular priests and other employees has been increased from Rs 4 lakh lakh to Rs 8 lakh by the Welfare Board on May 28,' said an Archaka.

Deccan Herald

4 days ago

• Deccan Herald

Nagashree students spread eco-awareness with band

Students of Nagashree English Medium School,Channarayapatna, conducted a special World Environment Day programme at Jain Kashi Shravanabelagola Sri Kshetra to raise awareness among tourists and the public. A girls' band set drew special attention as students in uniform marched through the main streets, performing and chanting environment-themed slogans. Principal Pavithra A. C. addressed the gathering, highlighting the consequences of plastic pollution and deforestation. She called upon the public to take responsibility for preserving the planet for future generations. The students' initiative received heartfelt appreciation from visitors and locals alike.

Deccan Herald

4 days ago

• Deccan Herald

KSR School rallies against plastic with powerful messages

KSR CBSE School, Belagavi, observed World Environment Day with a student-led rally against plastic pollution. Students carried bold placards warning of the dangers posed by single-use plastics to ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. The event aimed to raise awareness and motivate community action toward a cleaner, plastic-free future. Principal Ratana Bendigeri, School Manager Chandramathi Vernekar, HOD Suraj Vernekar, teachers, and students took part in this impactful initiative.