Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended greetings on World Environment Day and underlined India's progress in environmental conservation, saying the country's achievements demonstrate the impact of collective action, innovation and policy-driven efforts.
In a message shared on social media platform X, the Prime Minister praised individuals and organisations working towards environmental protection and called for renewed commitment to sustainable growth.
"Best wishes to everyone on World Environment Day. I would like to applaud all those passionate about environmental conservation. This is a day to reaffirm our commitment to protecting our environment and furthering growth that is sustainable," PM Modi said.
Also Read | Electoral roll revision enters Phase III; BLOs to receive Rs 6,000 bonus
Focus On forest cover and wildlife conservation
Highlighting India's environmental record over the past decade, the Prime Minister said government initiatives and public participation have contributed to significant gains in green cover and wildlife conservation.
Best wishes to everyone on World Environment Day. I would like to applaud all those passionate about environmental conservation. This is a day to reaffirm our commitment to protecting our environment and furthering growth that is sustainable. Numerous efforts by our Government
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 5, 2026
According to PM Modi, India's diverse ecosystems continue to support livelihoods and biodiversity, while targeted conservation programmes have helped revive vulnerable species across the country.
"We in India are very proud of our biological diversity. Our diverse ecosystems support countless species and livelihoods. Our efforts in special recovery have also been noteworthy," he said.
The Prime Minister cited conservation programmes focused on species such as the Great Indian Bustard, snow leopard, sloth bear and cheetah as examples of sustained efforts aimed at restoring ecosystems and protecting wildlife habitats.
We in India are very proud of our biological diversity. Our diverse ecosystems support countless species and livelihoods. Our efforts in special recovery have also been noteworthy. Conservation efforts for the Great Indian Bustard, snow leopards, sloth bears and Cheetahs have
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 5, 2026
He also highlighted the impact of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, stating that the initiative has contributed to the addition of nearly 1.19 lakh hectares of forest cover annually.
PM Modi said the country's environmental progress reflects what can be achieved when citizens, scientific innovation and effective policymaking work together towards a common goal.
World Environment Day's global significance
World Environment Day is observed annually on June 5 and traces its origins to the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm, Sweden. The event laid the foundation for global environmental governance and led to the establishment of World Environment Day by the United Nations.
The first observance was held in 1973, and the occasion has since evolved into one of the world's largest platforms for environmental awareness and action.
Also Read | ‘Stop listening to Bhagwan songs’: Fresh claims emerge in TCS Nashik case
This year's global celebrations are being hosted by Azerbaijan, bringing governments, organisations and environmental advocates together to promote sustainable solutions to pressing ecological challenges.
As climate concerns continue to dominate global discussions, India's emphasis on biodiversity protection, afforestation and sustainable development remains a key part of its environmental agenda.