Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary addressed a function which was organised to mark World Environment Day at JP Ganga Path on June 5, 2026. Photo: Aftab Alam Siddiqui
By A Correspondent
Patna: On the occasion of World Environment Day, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary inaugurated a large-scale plantation drive by planting a sapling under the “JP Ganga Path Integrated Park Project”. The campaign aims to plant one lakh saplings along the stretch. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister urged citizens to plant at least one tree in the name of their mothers. He also flagged off awareness vehicles of the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. These vehicles will travel across all districts of Bihar to spread awareness about environmental protection and encourage people to take up tree plantation on a large scale.
During the programme, five environmentalists were honoured with mementoes for their outstanding contributions in the fields of agroforestry and environmental conservation.
In his address, Samrat Choudhary extended greetings on World Environment Day and emphasised the importance of protecting the environment. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently highlighted environmental concerns and inspired efforts towards sustainable development. He also acknowledged the work of former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in improving Bihar’s infrastructure and expanding green cover.
The Chief Minister stated that the plantation drive along JP Ganga Path would transform the area into a vital oxygen hub in the coming years. He stressed that oxygen is essential for life and can only be ensured through sustained plantation efforts. A jogging track has also been developed along the path, promoting a healthier lifestyle in a greener environment.
Reflecting on the past, he said that when Jharkhand was carved out of Bihar, the state had less than 10 per cent forest cover. However, sustained efforts under previous administrations have significantly improved the green cover.
Samrat Choudhary also appealed to women to opt for environmentally friendly electric scooters, for which the government is offering a subsidy of ₹12,000. A subsidy of ₹1 lakh is also being provided for the purchase of four-wheeled electric vehicles.
He highlighted the rapid implementation of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana in Bihar. The state government is providing subsidies worth ₹23,000 crore to electricity consumers, a level of support unmatched elsewhere in the country. Out of the state’s ₹3.47 lakh crore budget, nearly one-third is allocated as electricity subsidy.
Under the solar scheme, rooftop solar panels will be installed on five lakh homes in the first phase. The Central Government will provide ₹33,000 per panel, while the remaining cost will be borne by the state. The scheme is set to begin this month following the signing of an MoU with the Centre.
Over the next two years, the government aims to supply solar power to 50 lakh households. If households generate more than 125 units of electricity, the state will purchase the surplus and transfer the amount directly to their bank accounts, creating an additional source of income. Members of self-help groups, including Jeevika Didis, will also be involved in the initiative and provided with incentives.
The Chief Minister added that since 2005, the NDA government in Bihar has facilitated the planting of 43 crore trees, significantly enhancing the state’s green cover. He once again appealed to citizens to plant a tree in their mother’s name or in memory of their late mothers to help protect the environment and ensure a safer future.
Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Dr Ramchandra Prasad welcomed the Chief Minister with a bouquet, ceremonial attire and a traditional turban.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Cooperative Minister Dr Ramkripal Yadav, Road Construction Department Secretary Pankaj Kumar Pal, Bihar State Road Development Corporation Managing Director Sheershat Kapil Ashok, Chief Minister’s Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh, Patna Division Commissioner Mayank Varvade, District Magistrate Dr Thiyagarajan S.M., Senior Superintendent of Police Kartikeya K. Sharma, along with other senior officials, were present at the event.
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