In a symbolic gesture promoting environmental consciousness, Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, planted a sapling at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh before the commencement of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification’s COP16. The tree-planting ceremony aligned with India’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (A Tree in Mother’s Name) initiative, emphasizing the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

During his visit to the embassy, Minister Yadav engaged with Indian students, encouraging their participation in both the tree-planting campaign and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), while emphasizing the importance of incorporating eco-friendly practices into their daily routines.

The UNCCD COP16, marking its historic debut in West Asia, opens today in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, coinciding with the convention’s 30th anniversary. The conference brings together representatives from 197 nations, with India’s delegation, jointly led by Minister Yadav and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, set to showcase the ambitious Aravalli Green Wall Project at the IUCN Pavilion. This transformative initiative aims to restore 1.15 million hectares of degraded landscape across four states in northwestern India, demonstrating the country’s commitment to combating desertification and land degradation.

The minister’s pre-conference activities and India’s planned presentation of the Aravalli Green Wall Project underscore the nation’s proactive stance in addressing global environmental challenges while fostering environmental awareness among its diaspora.

By: Vinod Kumar (UAE)