Shillong, June 5 : The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly today marked World Environment Day with a significant Tree Plantation Programme, underscoring its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. The event, organized by the Assembly’s Committee on Environment, saw active participation from key dignitaries and officials, emphasizing the critical role of trees in safeguarding the planet.
The ceremonial tree planting took place at the Secretariat Administrative Block of the Assembly premises in Khyndailad, Shillong. Saplings for the initiative were generously provided by the Forest Department of Meghalaya.
Among the esteemed guests present were Timothy D Shira, Deputy Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly; Wailadmiki Shylla, MLA (Jowai) and Chairman of the Committee on Environment; Ollan Sing Suin, MLA (Mawsynram) and fellow Committee member; Commissioner & Secretary Andrew Simons; Secretary Malthus S. Sangma; Chairman of the Lokayukta, C.P. Marak; along with co-opted members, Forest officers, senior officials, and other dignitaries. Each participant personally planted a tree, symbolizing a collective pledge towards a greener Meghalaya.
Addressing the gathering, Wailadmiki Shylla, Chairman of the Committee on Environment, articulated the profound message behind the seemingly modest initiative. “Today, through this tree plantation initiative, we join hands with the rest of the world in observing World Environment Day,” Shylla stated. “Though modest, this programme carries a strong message. Trees are nature’s defence force, and this symbolic act reflects our commitment to preserving the environment. We are happy to be joined by the Deputy Speaker and other esteemed members. Through this, we wish to send a strong message to all citizens of Meghalaya and beyond — it is our shared duty to protect the environment and to leave behind a better world for future generations.”
Shylla also highlighted the delicate balance between development and environmental protection. “Development and environmental protection must go hand in hand. We acknowledge the need for modern infrastructure, but not at the cost of our natural resources.” He praised the Meghalaya government’s proactive measures, particularly the ‘Payment for Ecosystem Services’ initiative, which incentivizes citizens for forest protection. “We are confident that under the leadership of our Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, who also holds the Forest portfolio, we will continue making significant strides in environmental protection,” he added.
Deputy Speaker Timothy D Shira, briefing the press, drew parallels between today’s efforts and India’s rich history of environmental consciousness. “Today, as the world observes Environment Day, we reflect on India’s deep-rooted tradition of environmental consciousness,” Shira remarked. “Even during Emperor Ashoka’s reign in 268 BC, citizens were encouraged to plant trees along roads for shade and ecological balance. Unfortunately, our forests have suffered significant degradation. This plantation initiative is crucial to restoring the environment, and it sets a strong example not just for urban citizens, but also for our rural communities.”
He further underscored the vital connection between tribal communities and nature, noting the impact of deforestation on water sources. “Our tribal communities — the Khasis, Jaintias, and Garos — have always shared a close bond with nature, relying on forests for sustenance. However, due to deforestation, streams are drying up, and ecological balance is at risk. We must act now to restore and preserve our forests for sustained water sources and biodiversity.”
Commissioner & Secretary Andrew Simons echoed these sentiments, expressing his appreciation for the initiative. “It is only appropriate that on World Environment Day, we participate in this tree plantation drive,” Simons stated. “We thank the Environment Committee, especially the Chairman Wailadmiki Shylla, our Deputy Speaker Timothy D Shira, and committee member Ollan Sing Suin, for taking this initiative forward. We also acknowledge the support of the Forest Department. This effort, though small in scale, serves as an inspiration for future generations and highlights the importance of trees in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.”
The Committee on Environment reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to environmental protection and urged all citizens across Meghalaya to actively participate in eco-friendly initiatives, fostering a collective responsibility towards a greener and more sustainable future.
