On World Environment Day, June 5th, 2024, Siddipet district in Telangana State united for a heartfelt celebration of nature and sustainability. Under the guidance of the Union and State government, the district showcased its commitment to environmental preservation and community empowerment through a series of impactful activities.
Leading the charge was the District Collector, Sri M. Manu Chowdary, IAS, and Additional Collector Smt. Garima Agarwal, IAS, along with the efforts of DRDO, Sri Jayadev Arya, and District Panchayat Officer, Smt. Devaki Devi. Coordinated efforts across all villages, involving various line departments, marked a day focusing on significant environmental action.
The highlight of the celebrations was an ambitious mega plantation drive under MGNREGA. Thousands of volunteers, public representatives, Self Help Group (SHG) members, school children, local farmers, and officials came together to plant approximately 70,000 saplings. This massive collective effort aimed to enhance green cover, combat climate change, and instill a sense of environmental responsibility in the community.
Complementing the plantation drive, the women of Siddipet villages showcased their skills by making eco-friendly leaf plates. This traditional craft emphasizes sustainable living and provides an alternative to plastic. Women, including SHG and MGNREGA workers, collaborated to produce around 60,000 leaf plates. Made from natural leaves of ‘Modhuga’ plant, these leaves are believed to be medicinal in nature that help in building immunity. These plates are biodegradable, compostable, and free from harmful chemicals. Promoting the use of leaf plates was also a significant step towards reducing plastic waste and encouraging eco-friendly practices.
The celebrations were marked by a strong sense of community spirit and collective responsibility towards the environment. With the coordination of Mandal functionaries, MPDOs, MPOs, grassroots functionaries, public representatives, teachers, ASHA workers, AWC teachers, and SHG members, the event showcased unified community participation. This spirit of togetherness underscored a commitment to preserving the planet for future generations.
The success of World Environment Day initiatives in Siddipet has set a positive precedent for future environmental activities. Continued efforts in tree planting and the promotion of eco-friendly products will further strengthen the district’s environmental sustainability and community well-being.
The people of Siddipet are not just celebrating World Environment Day—they are living it. Their actions are a powerful example of how collective grassroots efforts can significantly impact global environmental goals.
To know, reach out to: M.Chennareddy, IEC Consultant, DSBMG, Siddipet District, Telangana sbm.sdpt@gmai.com
Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) 