Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: Environment Minister CL John has issued a call for collective action to protect Nagaland’s natural resources, urging citizens to end hunting, curb forest fires, and eliminate plastic pollution. Speaking at the World Environment Day 2026 observance at the Kohima Peace Memorial and Eco Park, John emphasized that the future of society relies heavily on the health of the surrounding environment.
Highlighting the importance of long-term conservation, the minister reminded attendees that trees planted today serve future generations. He encouraged citizens to move beyond simple tree-planting drives and ensure the long-term survival of every sapling. John noted that environmental stability remains a cornerstone for peace and sustainable development, bridging the interests of everyone from local farmers to scientists.
Reflecting on current challenges, John pointed to the degradation caused by human activity, specifically naming forest fires and wildlife hunting as primary threats to ecological balance. He also voiced concerns regarding rapid urbanization, which he described as replacing natural forests with concrete jungles, and criticized poor civic behavior such as littering and defacing public property with paan stains.
“Every individual, irrespective of status or profession, depends on the environment,” John said during his address. The government is now preparing a new campaign to tackle plastic waste and single-use materials that threaten both public health and the local landscape.
At the event, the minister praised Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio for the development of the Peace Memorial and Eco Park. The ceremony also featured the presentation of photography and videography awards and the official release of the Nagaland State Biodiversity Board logo.
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