Chandigarah
Rajya Sabha Member and renowned environmentalist Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal strongly raised the issue in the Upper House of Parliament, demanding that environmental studies be made a mandatory subject in all schools across the country, just like other core subjects. He stated that when the foundation of environmental protection is laid in primary schools, environmentally conscious citizens will emerge as a strong force in society nationwide.
Sant Seechewal said that the bond between humans and nature is centuries old, and all religions convey the message of living in harmony with nature. Citing Gurbani, he emphasized that air, water, and earth form the very basis of human life, but today, due to human greed, these three invaluable gifts of nature are facing serious threats.
Expressing concern over the rising global temperatures, he said that the risk of devastating floods, severe droughts, and oceanic tsunamis has increased significantly. Climate imbalance is directly impacting humans, animals, birds, aquatic life, and vegetation. He added that these conditions are the result of human interference with nature.
Sant Seechewal stressed that if we wish to provide a safe future for coming generations, environmental awareness must be developed from the primary school level itself. Teaching children from an early age to love, respect, and protect nature will help them grow into responsible citizens and become society’s greatest strength in the future.
He further stated that the principle of “Think Globally, Act Locally” can only succeed when environmental education is not limited to textbooks but is implemented at the grassroots level. Practical lessons such as tree plantation, plant care, water conservation, proper waste management, and living in harmony with nature should be incorporated into the school curriculum.
In conclusion, Sant Seechewal appealed to the Government to declare environmental studies a compulsory subject in all schools across the country and to build a conscious and responsible society capable of protecting Mother Earth and ensuring a safe future for coming generations.
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