ITANAGAR : World Environment Day was observed across Arunachal Pradesh on Friday with plantation drives, cleanliness campaigns, awareness programmes, special Gram Sabha meetings and community-led initiatives promoting environmental conservation and sustainable living.
Government departments, local bodies, educational institutions, civil society organisations and community groups organised a series of activities focusing on afforestation, waste management, biodiversity conservation, climate action and public participation in protecting the environment.
In the state capital, Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd) participated in a plantation programme organized at Lok Bhavan.
Interacting with Lok Bhavan and Forest Department officials, the Governor emphasized that protecting nature is a collective responsibility and called upon every citizen to actively contribute towards increasing the State’s green cover. He particularly stressed the need for extensive plantation drives in urban areas, where rapid development often comes at the cost of natural vegetation.
Parnaik suggested that for every tree felled, at least ten saplings should be planted and nurtured to maintain ecological balance and safeguard the environment for future generations.
He advised all that tree plantation should become a way of life rather than being confined to occasions such as World Environment Day or Van Mahotsav. He encouraged communities, educational institutions, government departments, and social organizations to incorporate plantation activities into every celebration and public event, transforming each occasion into an opportunity to give back to nature.
Calling for greater public participation, Parnaik urged the people of Arunachal Pradesh to combine plantation efforts with cleanliness and environmental awareness drives. He also encouraged citizens to adopt mindful and sustainable practices in their daily lives, including conserving natural resources, reducing waste, and promoting eco-friendly habits.
Describing Arunachal Pradesh as one of India’s richest repositories of biodiversity and natural beauty, the Governor appealed to the people to preserve and strengthen this invaluable heritage.
“The responsibility of protecting the environment rests with every generation and that today’s efforts will determine the quality of life enjoyed by future generations”, he said.
“Let us join hands to nurture nature, protect our forests, and enrich our environment. Together, we can preserve the pristine natural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh and build a cleaner, greener, healthier, and more resilient future for all,” he appealed.
Meanwhile, Dera Natung Government College (DNGC), through its Eco Club in collaboration with the Department of Geography and the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Unit of 1 Arunachal Pradesh Battalion, observed World Environment Day with an awareness campaign and public interaction programme.
Despite disruptions to normal activities in the region, teachers, students, NCC cadets and Eco Club volunteers participated enthusiastically in the programme, reflecting their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Delivering the keynote address, DNGC Principal Dr MQ Khan emphasised the importance of environmental conservation, biodiversity protection and the responsible use of natural resources. He encouraged students to adopt sustainable lifestyles and contribute actively towards building a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future.
A major highlight of the observance was a plantation drive conducted on the college campus. Participants planted and adopted 60 saplings comprising ornamental plants, flowering trees and shrubs as part of the institution’s campus greening initiative.
At Ziro: Lower Subansiri DC Oli Perme commended the district-wide plantation drive undertaken to mark World Environment Day, during which more than 5,000 saplings were planted across five forest ranges under the Hapoli Forest Division.
The large-scale initiative was organised by the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change through the Hapoli Forest Range, Ziro, under the leadership of Divisional Forest Officer Tilling Takar, in collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development, Lower Subansiri.
A central commemorative programme was held at the District Dairy Farm in Siiro under the global World Environment Day theme, “Inspired by Nature, For Climate, For Our Future.”
The plantation drive witnessed active participation from forest officials, government functionaries, volunteers and local residents, contributing significantly to efforts aimed at enhancing the valley’s green cover and conserving its fragile ecosystem.
Addressing the gathering, speakers underscored the collective responsibility of citizens in safeguarding Ziro’s rich ecological heritage. They stressed the importance of sustainable dairy practices, environmentally responsible agriculture and adoption of eco-friendly lifestyles to ensure long-term environmental sustainability.
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders and community members towards environmental conservation and climate-resilient development in the district.
A Gram Sabha dedicated to Solid Waste Management (SWM) was also held in Ziro, bringing together residents, village leaders, administrative officials and technical experts to discuss community-driven strategies for maintaining cleanliness and protecting the valley’s fragile ecology.
Welcoming the participants, District Panchayat Development Officer Hage Tarung stressed that keeping Ziro clean should be viewed not merely as a government responsibility but as a collective civic duty requiring active participation from every household.
Speaking on the occasion, Assistant Commissioner-cum-Member Secretary Radhe Tatung outlined the roadmap for upcoming village-level sanitation initiatives. He emphasised that the success of waste management systems depends on close coordination between local monitoring committees and government departments, particularly in ensuring effective waste segregation and disposal.
Dulley Pai called for greater community involvement in environmental conservation and urged residents to actively participate in cleanliness drives while reducing the use of single-use plastics.
The meeting also featured an interactive discussion during which residents raised concerns and suggestions relating to waste collection mechanisms, plastic waste management and other sanitation-related issues. Officials responded to queries and assured participants that community feedback would be taken into consideration while implementing future initiatives.
At Pasighat: A district-level meeting on the implementation of the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, and directions issued by the Supreme Court was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall to mark World Environment Day under the chairmanship of East Siang DC Sonalika Jiwani.
The meeting was attended by public representatives, officials of line departments, members of the Pasighat Municipal Council (PMC) and other stakeholders. Discussions centred on waste segregation, scientific waste management, public participation, institutional accountability and compliance with the new rules.
During the meeting, it was informed that the Pasighat Solid Waste Management Plant, established by the PMC in collaboration with Pasighat Smart City Development Corporation Limited (PSCDCL) and inaugurated in 2025, has a processing capacity of 32 metric tonnes per day against the town’s current waste generation of about 14 metric tonnes daily. Around 10 to 12 vehicles are deployed each day for waste collection and transportation across Pasighat.
Addressing the gathering, the DC stressed the goal of achieving 100 per cent scientific waste management in the district. She highlighted the importance of source segregation, community participation and behavioural change, while citing the successful Mirsam Self-Help Group waste management model as an example worthy of replication. She also emphasised the need for adequate waste collection infrastructure and stricter enforcement against littering and non-compliance.
Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng welcomed the Supreme Court’s directions and the SWM Rules, 2026, and called for their effective implementation. He observed that a significant portion of wet waste in the Adi community is traditionally utilised as pig feed, reducing the burden on waste management systems, while stressing the need for greater focus on non-biodegradable waste.
Pasighat East MLA Tapi Darang underscored the need for stricter measures to curb plastic pollution and littering. Referring to practices adopted in states such as Sikkim, he suggested exploring mechanisms to make tourists accountable for the waste they generate. He also expressed concern over increasing litter along riverbanks and picnic spots, particularly during the summer season.
The meeting reviewed key provisions of the SWM Rules, 2026, including mandatory four-stream segregation of wet, dry, sanitary and special-care waste, responsibilities of Bulk Waste Generators (BWGs), public awareness initiatives, infrastructure development and enforcement mechanisms.
Officials informed the meeting that BWGs would be required to ensure source segregation, establish waste-processing facilities or obtain Extended Bulk Waste Generator Responsibility certificates where applicable, and register on a centralised online portal for reporting and accountability.
The governance framework under the new rules was also discussed. It was informed that monitoring committees would function at the State, district and block/Gram Panchayat levels to oversee implementation and compliance, while periodic reviews would be conducted to strengthen accountability, coordination and transparency in waste management.
The meeting concluded with a collective resolve to strengthen solid waste management through coordinated efforts involving government departments, local bodies, community organisations, educational institutions and the public.
The Arunachal Pradesh University (APU) also joined the nation in observing World Environment Day by organizing a plantation drive under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (EPMKN) campaign, in pursuance of directives issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
Vice-Chancellor Dr. Milorai Modi and Registrar Narmi Darang attended the event and actively participated in the drive along with faculty members and employees of the university. Approximately 100 ornamental and fruit trees were planted on the occasion, contributing to the green cover of the campus.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Modi emphasized the importance of collective responsibility towards the environment, urging every member of the university community to make tree plantation a personal and sustained commitment. He noted that a university, as a seat of knowledge and conscience, must lead by example in matters of ecological stewardship, and expressed hope that the saplings planted today would grow as lasting symbols of APU’s dedication to a greener future.
Registrar Narmi Darang, in her remarks, highlighted the significance of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign and called upon faculty, staff, and students to extend the spirit of the drive beyond the campus. He stated that small collective actions, when pursued with sincerity, can bring meaningful change to the environment we inhabit.
In a parallel initiative, the APU Students’ Union also organized a plantation drive, during which around 50 saplings were planted by the APUSU.
The Spearhead Division under Spear Corps also conducted a massive tree plantation drive at the scenic Siang Beach to mark World Environment Day 2026.
The initiative, aimed at combating soil erosion, preserving local biodiversity and enhancing the green cover of the pristine Siang region, saw enthusiastic participation from local school students working shoulder to shoulder with Army personnel.
At Tawang: The Tawang Brigade of the Indian Army under the Gajraj Corps organised a large-scale plantation drive across Chuje and several other locations in Tawang township, highlighting a collective commitment towards environmental conservation.
The initiative was led by General Officer Commanding 5 Mountain Division Major General Amit Nautiyal and brought together representatives from the Army, civil administration, religious institutions, educational establishments and civil society organisations.
Addressing the gathering, Tawang Brigade Commander Brigadier Bhupal Singh described environmental protection as not merely a responsibility but a national mission. He highlighted concerns over declining air and water quality, deforestation and ecological degradation, cautioning that delayed action could pose serious challenges for future generations.
Referring to the theme, “Sanjhedari Se Sanrakshan” (Conservation Through Partnership), he said the Gajraj Corps, in collaboration with the civil administration and local communities, has been undertaking initiatives aimed at preserving the region’s rich ecological heritage.
Singh emphasised that lasting environmental conservation can only be achieved through collective action, community participation and sustained commitment from all sections of society.
Paintings created by winners of an environment-themed competition held earlier were also displayed during the programme. The young artists were felicitated by Major General Nautiyal and other dignitaries for promoting environmental awareness through art.
At Daporijo: World Environment Day was observed across Upper Subansiri district with Special Gram Sabha meetings organised in all Gram Panchayats to create awareness about the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, and the Swachh Gaon, Surakshit Jalvayu campaign.
At Tani-Tator IV Gram Panchayat, a Special Gram Sabha was held with the participation of Upper Subansiri Zilla Parishad Chairperson Jyoit Jeram, Gusar Zilla Parishad Member Yalar Riddi, Daporijo District Panchayat Development Officer Tanam Kyali and Circle Officer-cum-Member Secretary Nikrun Bui.
The meeting focused on promoting proper waste management practices, cleanliness and community participation in environmental conservation. Participants were sensitised on the provisions of the SWM Rules, 2026, and the importance of maintaining clean and pollution-free villages.
Addressing the gathering, District Panchayat Development Officer Tanam Kyali urged villagers to follow the waste management guidelines in letter and spirit and actively contribute towards cleanliness drives in their respective villages.
ZPC Jyoit Jeram and ZPM Yalar Riddi appreciated the enthusiastic response of the villagers and assured continued support for community-led initiatives aimed at improving sanitation and environmental protection.
Circle Officer-cum-Member Secretary Nikrun Bui and the Gram Panchayat Chairperson assured the Gram Sabha that funds received from the Central and State governments would be utilised judiciously for developmental and public welfare activities.
A key resolution adopted during the meeting was to work collectively towards making Belo village the cleanest village in Arunachal Pradesh. Villagers expressed their commitment to achieving the goal through sustained cleanliness efforts and active community participation.
The programme concluded with a pledge by all participants to contribute towards a cleaner, greener and healthier environment.
At Aalo: World Environment Day was observed across West Siang district with river-cleaning and plantation drives organised at Nikte and Darak, highlighting community participation in environmental conservation and sustainable development.
At Nikte, the North East Foundation for Health Education and Livelihood Skills (NEHEALS), in collaboration with the Nikte (Kodum) Administrative Block, organised a river-cleaning and plantation drive along the HU river. The initiative was supported by the Ubu Welfare Society and Ubu Bango Students Union under the guidance of Nikte Circle Officer Hento Riba.
Around 72 volunteers, including government officials, community members, representatives of local organisations, Gaon Burahs and PRI members, participated in the programme.
During the drive, nearly 200 kg of waste was removed from a four-kilometre stretch of the river, helping improve riverine cleanliness and reduce pollution risks.
Saplings were also planted along the riverbanks and nearby public spaces to restore vegetation, prevent soil erosion and enhance biodiversity. Organisers informed that the Nikte (Kodum) Administrative Block, Ubu Welfare Society and local volunteers would jointly monitor and maintain the saplings.
Appreciating the collective effort, Nikte Circle Officer Hento Riba said, “Community engagement combined with institutional support is vital for preserving our rivers. Today’s initiative demonstrates our shared commitment to a cleaner, greener Nikte.”
Representatives of NEHEALS, the Ubu Welfare Society and the Ubu Bango Students Union reaffirmed their commitment to promoting environmental conservation and public health through continued community-based initiatives.
Meanwhile, a plantation drive was organised at the proposed Orchid Sanctuary-cum-Botanical Garden in Darak by the Darak Tourism and Social Welfare Foundation (DTSWF) in collaboration with the Along Forest Division.
The programme was attended by Darak Head Gaon Burah Debi Potom, Darak Mahila Samiti President Giba Likar Boje and Darak Lune Bane President Mirnga Raksap, along with Panchayat leaders, students, government officials and NGO volunteers.
Students of Donyi Polo Government College, Kamki, currently undergoing a tourism internship under the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme in collaboration with the District Tourism Office, Aalo, also participated in the plantation drive.
Addressing the gathering, HGB Debi Potom highlighted the significance of World Environment Day and encouraged continued support for the nationwide campaign, “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.” Tourism internship student Kirba Mayi spoke on environmental protection, conservation of forests and promotion of sustainable tourism.
A total of 55 saplings, including Gulmohar, Bakul, Ajar and Jackfruit, were planted at the proposed Orchid Sanctuary-cum-Botanical Garden site. The plantation area forms part of an initiative under which DTSWF has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Orchid Society of Assam for research and documentation of orchid species and native plants.
At Gumto/Tarasso: World Environment Day was celebrated with enthusiasm in Gumto and Tarasso through a series of activities promoting environmental awareness, physical fitness, afforestation and sustainable living.
At Gumto, the Circle Office organised a 5-km marathon aimed at encouraging environmental consciousness, civic responsibility and healthy living among the public.
The event was flagged off by Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek in the presence of Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Lobsang Tsering, Gumto Zilla Parishad Member Tana Rekha and officials of the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC).
Addressing the gathering, DC Tsering highlighted the growing challenges posed by climate change and urged citizens to adopt environmentally responsible practices while maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Vivek emphasised the importance of tree plantation, physical fitness and community participation in environmental conservation. Appreciating the initiative of Gumto Circle Officer Dr Rebeka Borang, he proposed that the Gumto Marathon be institutionalised as an annual event involving both Gumto Circle and Doimukh Sub-Division.
The event also featured fitness enthusiast, model and cinema personality Tarh Gungte Hura as the Icon Runner. The marathon witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, youths and members of the public.
Tok Elan secured first position, while Takam Dominik and Techi James finished second and third respectively. During the closing ceremony, ZPM Tana Rekha and IOC officials announced special prizes for female participants to encourage greater participation of women in future sporting events.
The programme concluded with a plantation drive at the Circle Office premises and a collective pledge to work towards a cleaner, greener and healthier environment.
Later, MLA Vivek and DC Tsering attended a World Environment Day programme organised by Team Robniang Helping Hands Foundation (TRHHF) in collaboration with the Forest Department at Nabam Runghi Cricket Ground, Barmani in Tarasso.
A large-scale plantation drive was carried out in and around the cricket ground with active participation from local residents, volunteers and officials.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Vivek urged people not only to plant trees but also to nurture and protect them. Referring to the recently launched Khet Bachao Abhiyan, he encouraged residents to adopt organic farming, kitchen gardening and other sustainable agricultural practices to promote self-reliance.
The DC lauded the efforts of TRHHF and stressed the need to expand forest cover and undertake afforestation initiatives to address environmental degradation and climate change.
At Anini: The Anini Forest Division in Dibang Valley district observed World Environment Day with a plantation drive and awareness programme under the theme, “Inspired by Nature: For Climate, For Our Future.”
The programme was attended by Tourism and Civil Aviation Advisor Mopi Mihu, Dibang Valley DC Bekir Nyorak, DFO Taluk Rime, SDO Lijum Ete, PWD Executive Engineer Binam Messar, Urban Development Executive Engineer Olom Apang, District Transport Officer Lamwang Aran, and officials of the Forest Department.
As part of the observance, saplings were planted to promote environmental conservation and reinforce the importance of collective action in addressing climate change.
Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries emphasised the need for sustainable development, protection of natural resources and active public participation in preserving the rich biodiversity of Dibang Valley.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by stakeholders to work towards a greener, cleaner and climate-resilient future for the district.
At Jemeithang: World Environment Day was observed at the Sumbachu 3 MW Small Hydro Power Project in Jemeithang, Tawang district, with a plantation drive aimed at promoting environmental conservation and strengthening ecological sustainability in the region.
The programme was organised by Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Arunachal Power Limited (HPDCAPL) as part of its efforts to enhance green cover, mitigate environmental degradation and support the preservation of the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
The initiative also reflected the corporation’s commitment to sustainable development, environmental stewardship and the promotion of clean and renewable hydroelectric power generation.
Project officials, staff members and local villagers actively participated in the plantation drive, contributing to the afforestation effort and spreading awareness about the importance of environmental protection.
The organisers stated that community participation remains vital for conserving natural resources and fostering long-term environmental sustainability.
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment by HPDCAPL and local stakeholders to work towards a greener, healthier and more sustainable future for the region.
At Likabali/Nari: World Environment Day was observed across Lower Siang district with plantation drives, river-cleaning campaigns and cleanliness programmes organised by government departments, community organisations and local residents.
At Likabali, the Likabali Forest Division conducted a large-scale plantation drive at Gogar, where around 400 to 500 teak saplings were planted.
The programme witnessed participation from members of the public, including representatives of the BJP, the Lower Siang District Students’ Union, PRI members and residents of nearby villages.
Meanwhile, the Nari Sub-Divisional Administration organised a series of environmental activities across the sub-division. Social service and cleanliness drives were carried out in townships, villages and market areas with the involvement of government departments, Village Welfare Societies and local residents.
A major highlight of the observance was a cleanup drive along the Dobu River, which drew the participation of more than 100 volunteers.
The campaign was conducted in collaboration with the North East Foundation for Health, Education and Livelihood Skills (NE-HEALS), with support from the Bogum Ao Foundation and Nari Village Welfare Society in coordination with the Forest Department. Approximately 70 kilograms of waste were collected from the riverside during the drive.
As part of the nationwide “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, a plantation drive was also carried out along the Namey–Nari stretch, where around 120 saplings were planted with active participation from youth leaders and community members in coordination with the Forest Department.
Another plantation programme was organised at Koyu in collaboration with NE-HEALS. Around 100 saplings were planted in the presence of Koyu Assistant Commissioner Dr Marngam Kakki, Koyu Zilla Parishad Member Nyachi Koyu and other dignitaries.
The celebrations witnessed enthusiastic participation from government officials, Panchayati Raj Institution members, Gaon Burahs, youth leaders, Village Welfare Societies, students and local residents, reflecting a collective commitment towards environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The district administration and participating organisations appreciated the contributions of all stakeholders and reiterated the importance of continued community participation in safeguarding the environment and building a cleaner, greener future.
At Pedung: A Special Gram Sabha was convened at Pedung village to mark World Environment Day 2026, bringing together government officials, armed forces personnel, PRI representatives, village elders and local residents to reaffirm their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Addressing the gathering, West Kameng DC Dr Kumar highlighted the significance of World Environment Day as a global platform for promoting environmental awareness and action. He stressed the need for community participation in preserving forests, water resources and biodiversity, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions such as West Kameng.
He also underscored the collective responsibility of tackling challenges such as deforestation, climate change, solid waste generation and biodiversity loss. Calling for greater public involvement in tree plantation and environmental stewardship, he said conservation efforts must begin at the grassroots level.
Speaking on the occasion, 2 Arunachal Scouts Commanding Officer Colonel Parikshit Das reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to environmental protection and community engagement. He emphasised the importance of maintaining ecological balance and encouraged citizens to adopt sustainable practices.
The Gram Sabha deliberated on environmental protection, afforestation, sustainable natural resource management, solid waste management and the role of local communities in safeguarding the environment.
The programme concluded with a plantation drive in the village under the national campaign, “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, encouraging citizens to plant and nurture trees in honour of their mothers. Participants also took a collective pledge to protect the environment and work towards a greener and healthier future.
