Environmental conservation is essential for a better future and it is with this vision that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided "One Earth, One Family and One Future" as the theme G-20 this year, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Monday.
“Progress in balance with nature should be our mantra; actually it is the mantra to save the world. The need is to take along those who are weaker than us also. There should be no blind competition. It is unfortunate that only a few people utilise most of the world's resources; this earth belongs to all of us. The whole world is one family,” Chohan said, addressing the inaugural session of special 'Think 20' event under the G-20 convention being held in Bhopal on the theme 'Global Governance With Life Values and Well Being: Fostering Cooperation in Framework, Finance and Technology.'
He said crucial points will emerge from the brainstorming sessions of the intellectuals and thinkers participating in the programme.
Speaking about natural balance, the CM said that the existence of wildlife along with humans is also imperative. Many species of animals are going extinct. Due to efforts of PM Modi, cheetahs were translocated from Namibia to Madhya Pradesh, which is already known for tigers, leopards, vultures and gharials.
Chouhan further said that PM Modi has set various goals for the coming years; mainly on the use of renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions while building a strong economy. By the year 2030, India will almost halve the carbon intensity of its economy.
The plantation drive being conducted in Madhya Pradesh is a proof of the principle of 'progress in balance with nature', the CM said. Also, 4.5 lakh water conservation structures have been built through the Jalabhishek Abhiyan. He urged the guests to visit the world heritage sites of Sanchi Buddhist Stupas and rock paintings of Bhimbetka (both in neighbouring Raisen district) and the Tribal Museum of Bhopal.
Making special remarks during the inaugural session, Suman Berry, vice chairman, NITI Aayog, Government of India said that thinkers from all over the world will present their views on the importance of environment-friendly lifestyle and moral values. NITI Aayog has co-operated in organising this ideological session in Madhya Pradesh to convey the message of Ekatma (unity), public participation, compassion, harmony, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and environment-friendly lifestyle.
Sujan Chinoy, T-20 Chair and Director General, Manohar Parrikar-IDSA, New Delhi talked about how Mahatma Gandhi had emphasised on cleanliness. PM Modi has made cleanliness a mass campaign. The dwindling green cover today is a matter of concern. Environmental balance is essential. The special Think 20 event will bring to the fore important aspects of the subject.
Tetsushi Sonobe, Dean and CEO, ADBI, Tokyo (Japan) said given India's concern for the environment, the outline of this programme is commendable. Thinkers of many nations have come on one platform.
George Laryea-Adjei, UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia, said “I believe that India has the unique opportunity and ability to lead this year and help galvanize the changes that we all need – the needs of one earth, one family and the needs of children who will inherit the earth. UNICEF globally and in South Asia, is privileged to stand with India in this historic moment, extending support and experience to our collective goal of making stronger progress, not only economically but also in cognitive capital, for achieving the SDGs for all children within this decade.”
G-20 chief coordinator of the Government of India Harshvardhan Shringla said that he was happy to see the smart and clean city Bhopal. India's presidency in G-20 will prove to be important. Indonesia's Deputy Minister Slamet Soedarsono said that steps have to be taken together to achieve development while tackling the fundamental challenges.
Vice Chairman of Madhya Pradesh Niti Aayog Sachin Chaturvedi said that the model required for all-inclusive development today is possible through an eco-friendly lifestyle.
